It's been six months since Marvel's "Doctor Strange" debuted in theaters, adding Benedict Cumberbatch to the list of new MCU superheroes. As part of Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the film added the story of another Infinity Stone, which Cumberbatch's Stephen Strange is now tasked to protect. The Scott Derrickson-directed debut was a massive worldwide hit, earning $677.7 million on a $165 million budget. It also linked Thor's world to the world of Stephen Strange, hinting of the latter's role in the upcoming "Avengers: Infinity War." It goes without saying that fans are already expecting "Doctor Strange 2," given that the first film did so well globally.
Another assumption is that these Marvel films always come in three's, so it should be the case that a sequel is already in the works. That, however, is not yet happening. In fact, Marvel Studios big boss Kevin Feige recently admitted that the studio is "not actively discussing" the sequel just yet.
'Doctor Strange' sequel isn't happening soon
The last couple of weeks brought about the massive success of "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2," which predecessor was also a breakout hit for Marvel. As the sequel once again won another box office weekend, some moviegoers may be wondering if "Doctor Strange 2" will find the same fate once it arrives in the nearby future. However, Kevin Feige recently spoke to Collider and it seems that the studio hasn't even begun planning the sequel.
When asked if he can confirm that Scott Derrickson will return to helm the sequel, Feige declined.
The Marvel Studios boss also deflected further questions about "Doctor Strange 2," saying, "We’re not actively discussing anything past Untitled Avengers other than we’ve dated 'Spider-Man: Homecoming 2.'" He's also added that Tom Holland's Spider-Man is set to appear in the last two "Avengers" films, and will have a sequel to this year's "Spider-man: Homecoming." Lastly, he confirmed that "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.
3" is a go with James Gunn returning to write and direct the film, but no word yet on when they will begin working on the second "Doctor Strange" film and when it will be released.
Sequel to be part of possible Phase 5 instead?
Back in April, Screen Rant reported that "Doctor Strange 2" might not even be part of Phase 4 of the MCU.
This is getting clearer by the day, with Feige's recent comments on the matter. It seems that the studio's focus right now is the "Spider-Man" and "Guardians of the Galaxy" franchises, and that Phase Four will focus on these films instead. It's possible that Marvel is changing up their strategy for their superhero films moving forward, but one thing's for sure—"Doctor Strange"'s box office numbers are an indication that people are invested in the character and are waiting on Marvel's next move.
