Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson recently spoke about his time developing the film for Marvel Studios, specifically casting the role of Dr. Stephen Strange.
There were a lot of interesting names in the mix to star in the film before Benedict Cumberbatch he was ultimately chosen. One of the big names considered for the role was Joaquin Phoenix.
It turns out that Phoenix actually came incredibly close to being cast as Doctor Strange! During an interview with /Film, Derrickson spoke about his time with the actor.
He said, “Well, all I’ll say is that I spent some time with him. I spent a couple of long afternoons with him and I was really impressed with him personally and his thought process.”
He added: “This is what I will say: I think he was giving, I think he was opening his mind to this possibility. I think he was looking into that possibility.”
It got to the point where the director started to realize he wasn’t right for the role. “I met a lot of actors and Joaquin was the one I spent the most time with.”
He continued, “As we continued to talk, it became clear to me that Joaquin didn’t really belong in that movie and probably never belonged in the MCU. He’s a very specific guy, with very specific goals as an actor and a very specific way of performing.”
Derrickson concluded: “I think it became clear to both of us that this may not be a good solution, that’s really the point.”
It would have been really interesting to see Phoenix in the role, but I’m not sure how he would commit to all the films Marvel would make with the character.
While I liked Cumberbatch, Phoenix is a better actor and I’m sure he would have done something very different with the character.
As for Cumberbatch being cast in the film, Derrickson said the actor was always “my choice for the role.”
Previously speaking about why she didn’t take the role, Phoenix said: “When I was younger I was probably a bit snobbish about [taking on blockbuster roles]. But they have improved.”
He continued: “I flirted with a lot of those films, having encounters and getting closer, but in the end I never felt like they were going to be truly satisfying. There were too many requirements that went against my character instincts. I was spoiled. I have never had to make these compromises.”
He said: “I haven’t met a director yet with one of those movies where we analyze the script, they say, ‘You know what, screw this scene, let’s focus on the character!’ I understand, but it’s better if he doesn’t.”
Do you think Phoenix would have been a good choice for the role?
by Joey Paur
Source: Geek Tyrant
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
