Scott Derrickson has been making some great casting choices for his entry into the Marvel Universe. And, while the deal is not yet quite sealed, it appears he’s adding one more fine character actor into the mix. Michael Stuhlbarg is negotiating to join **Doctor Strange{
Derrickson is getting ready to direct the film this December in the UK, working from a script by Jon Spaihts. He’ll bring to life the character originally conjured by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. He started as a selfish New York surgeon (named Stephen Strange, to be played by Benedict Cumberbatch) who loses his professional skills in a car crash. After falling on hard times, he visits a mysterious healer known as The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), and learns to tap into psychic and magical powers. In recognition of his selfless efforts to thwart malcontent fellow disciple Baron Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor), he’s taught the mystical arts and sets out to defeat other shady sorcerers and various villains.
Rachel McAdams is confirmed and Mads Mikkelsen is in talks to appear in the movie, and while The Hollywood Reporter’s story doesn’t mention his character, other sites have dug up word that Stuhlbarg will be playing Nicodemus West, a scientist who in the comic books is the man who works on Strange after his accident and ends up following him to meet the Ancient One. Of course, for all we know, his story in the film could be quite different, but in Stuhlbarg’s hands it should be entertaining.
Doctor Strange has conjured up an October 28, 2016 release in the US, so it’s now less than a year away. Stuhlbarg can be found stealing scenes in Steve Jobs, which is out on November 13. He’s also in Trumbo, due to hit UK screens on February 5 next year.