5 Things About ‘Doctor Strange’ That Made Zero Sense and 5 Things That Made Perfect Sense

The 2016 Marvel film ‘Doctor Strange’ brought a fresh wave of mysticism to the superhero world, blending mind-bending visuals with a story of personal transformation. Benedict Cumberbatch shines as the arrogant surgeon turned sorcerer, diving into a universe of magic and alternate dimensions that hooked audiences worldwide.

While the movie dazzled with its creativity, it also left some head-scratching moments alongside its brilliant choices. Let’s break down five things that didn’t quite add up and five that worked like a charm, alternating between the two to explore what made this film both puzzling and perfect.

Made Zero Sense: Stephen Strange’s Speedy Magic Mastery

Stephen Strange goes from a crippled surgeon to a master sorcerer in what feels like a blink. After a car accident destroys his hands, he trains at Kamar-Taj and somehow becomes an expert in mystic arts faster than most people learn to drive.

This rapid learning curve feels unrealistic, even for a genius like Strange. The film glosses over the time and effort needed to wield such complex powers, making his transformation seem more like a plot convenience than a believable journey.

Made Perfect Sense: Mind-Blowing Visual Effects

The visuals in ‘Doctor Strange’ are a feast for the eyes. From the kaleidoscopic mirror dimension to cityscapes folding like origami, the film creates a world where reality bends in jaw-dropping ways.

These effects aren’t just flashy—they ground the story’s magical elements, making the impossible feel real. The creative use of CGI sets a high bar for superhero films, pulling viewers into Strange’s wild new reality.

Made Zero Sense: Kaecilius’ Murky Motivations

Mads Mikkelsen’s Kaecilius, the film’s main villain, wants to bring the dark entity Dormammu to Earth, but his reasons are vague at best. He’s a former student of the Ancient One, yet his drive to destroy the world lacks clear explanation.

The film doesn’t dig into his backstory or give him a personal stake in his evil plan. This leaves Kaecilius feeling like a generic bad guy, wasting Mikkelsen’s talent on a flat character.

Made Perfect Sense: Benedict Cumberbatch’s Casting

Casting Benedict Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange was a stroke of genius. His sharp wit and natural arrogance make the character’s early ego-driven moments believable, while his emotional depth carries the hero’s growth.

Cumberbatch brings charm and intensity, balancing humor with vulnerability. His performance anchors the film, making Strange’s journey from selfish doctor to selfless sorcerer feel authentic and compelling.

Made Zero Sense: The Time Loop in the Dark Dimension

Strange traps Dormammu in a time loop using the Eye of Agamotto, but the logic falls apart. The film states time doesn’t exist in the Dark Dimension, so how can a time-based spell even work there?

This contradiction undermines the cleverness of Strange’s victory. It’s a cool moment, but the rules of the Dark Dimension make it hard to buy as a realistic solution.

Made Perfect Sense: The Ancient One’s Mystical Presence

Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of the Ancient One is a standout. Her calm, enigmatic vibe and subtle power make her the perfect guide for Strange’s mystical awakening.

She brings a unique energy to the role, blending wisdom with a touch of otherworldly charm. Her scenes elevate the film, giving the magical training sequences a grounded, spiritual weight.

Made Zero Sense: The Apple Time Trick

When Strange tests the Eye of Agamotto on an apple, it shows bite marks appearing and disappearing as he manipulates time. But nobody else eats the apple, so why do the bites change?

This scene looks cool but doesn’t hold up under scrutiny. The random bite marks feel like a visual gimmick rather than a logical display of time manipulation.

Made Perfect Sense: The Humor and Heart

‘Doctor Strange’ weaves humor into its story with ease, from Strange’s witty banter to the playful antics of his Cloak of Levitation. These light moments balance the heavy mystical themes.

The film also nails its emotional core, showing Strange’s growth from arrogance to humility. This mix of laughs and heart makes the story relatable and fun, even amid the cosmic stakes.

Made Zero Sense: The Surgeon’s Unprofessional Consult

Strange’s consultation with a surgeon about fixing his hands is oddly hostile. The doctor is rude and dismissive, hanging up on Strange mid-conversation, which feels exaggerated and unrealistic.

Real-world medical consults, even tough ones, don’t play out like this. The scene seems designed to push Strange’s desperation but comes off as forced and out of touch.

Made Perfect Sense: The Self-Contained Story

Unlike many Marvel films that feel like setup for bigger events, ‘Doctor Strange’ tells a complete story. It introduces the character, his world, and his growth without leaning too heavily on the broader MCU.

This focus makes the film accessible and satisfying on its own. The nod to future adventures is subtle, letting Strange’s origin story shine without feeling like a puzzle piece.

What’s your take on ‘Doctor Strange’—which moments left you confused or amazed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!