It seems Marvel has been working on its "Doctor Strange" movie for years, with a new rumor surrounding who will star as the sorcerer supreme appearing almost weekly. This time, however, the rumors just might be true.
The Wrap reports that Marvel is courting none other than Joaquin Phoenix to star as the master of the mystic arts Dr. Stephen Strange, according to multiple individuals close to the casting process.
Those same sources say a deal is not set in stone just yet, but that Phoenix is in consideration and has had discussions about starring in the film. Marvel and representatives for Phoenix haven't yet commented on the matter. Phoenix was previously sought after to play as Lex Luthor in "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice," but that role ultimately went to Jesse Eisenberg.
Phoenix is a three-time Oscar nominated actor, most often sticking to smaller, thought provoking films like "Her" and "The Master." He also had major roles in M. Night Shyamalan's "The Village" and "Signs," as well as playing the main villain in Ridley Scott's "Gladiator."
Were he to take the role, Phoenix would play the character of Stephen Strange, an ex-neurosurgeon who learns the ways of magic and the mystic arts in order to protect Earth from unseen threats. The character was name-dropped in "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" and will be a major part for Marvel's "Phase 3" film lineup.
If Phoenix does take the role, he joins the ever growing list of actors and actresses who have become heroes of the Marvel cinematic universe, and he likely would feel right at home. He's worked with many of them before, such as Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow) in "Her," Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye) in "The Immigrant" and Mark Ruffalo (The Hulk) in "Reservation Road." Phoenix would likely share at least some screen time with them, whether in "Avengers 3" or via cameo appearances in their films or in his.
Actors like Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hardy, Jared Leto and Justin Theroux have all been rumored at some point to be keen on playing Dr. Strange, but nearly all of them have scheduling conflicts.
"Dr. Strange" will be directed by Scott Derrickson with a script by Jon Spaihts. Marvel CEO Kevin Feige is producing the film. It is likely some news about the film will be announced at Marvel's San Diego Comic-Con panel on Saturday.
