In the “Marvel mal Anders” series, our comic expert Sebastian tackles forgotten film adaptations by the comic forge. Today: “Dr. Strange” from 1978 – without Benedict Cumberbatch, but with an acting legend as the villain. Here is the video:
In the 70s, Marvel didn’t think of a big cinema universe. On the other hand, it should be a series on the small TV screen and the comic stories should now also be presented to fans and a new audience as moving images. After the “Spider-Man” and “The Incredible Hulk” series were already running, “Dr. Strange” follow. But it ended up being a 90-minute feature film, which flopped on US TV in 1978. In Germany, the film was only released on VHS in 1986 and is largely unknown.
The conditions seemed good – even comic legend Stan Lee got involved, was still enthusiastic about the result years later, and was convinced that the poor ratings were only due to failed program planning (in competition with the TV event at the time and Straßenfeger “Roots”) lay.
Jessica Walters vs. Dr. strange
In “Dr. Strange” from 1978, by the way, we see Peter Hooten as Dr. Stephen Strange – an actor who is largely unknown today, but who had a major role in another film in 1978: In “Inglorious Bastards”, the World War II actioner, which Quentin Tarantino strongly credited to his “Inglourious Basterds” inspired.
But as a villain, you see a screen legend. Then the first film strand deals with Morgan Le Fay – and this one is played by Jessica Walter. Series fans may know her as Lucille Bluth from “Arrested Development”, among others, but the multiple Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actress has also appeared in some major cinema roles – particularly impressive as a stalker and adversary for Clint Eastwood in his “Sadistic”.
Even more Marvel with a difference
What Sebastian thinks of this villain and In the video, at the beginning of the article, he tells you why we could also see the good Morgan in the current MCU. Of course, you will also learn how Sebastian created this very first “Dr. Strange” film adaptation rated. And if you still feel like watching more extraordinary Marvel films afterward, we recommend the video for “Spider-Man: The Spider-Man”:
On our YouTube channel, you will find more expert videos by Sebastian. If you’re looking forward to a specific old Marvel movie, you can also leave a comment there.