Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) is a thrilling exploration of Marvelโs multiverse, directed by Sam Raimi. The film follows Doctor Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) as he protects America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez), a young girl with the unique ability to travel between universes. America is pursued by dark forces sent by the Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen), who seeks to exploit her powers to reunite with her lost children in an alternate reality.
The story begins with Strange discovering Wanda Maximoffโs descent into villainy, driven by grief and her transformation into the Scarlet Witch. Wanda wields the Darkhold, a book of dark magic, to achieve her goal, but her actions threaten the multiverse. Strange and America escape through various universes, encountering alternate versions of themselves and other familiar characters, including a powerful council called the Illuminati in one universe.
As the battle intensifies, Strange must confront his own darker nature and the consequences of his actions across the multiverse. Using forbidden magic, he controls the body of a deceased alternate version of himself, creating a “zombie” Strange to stop Wanda. Meanwhile, Wandaโs quest reaches a tragic turning point when she realizes the harm she has caused, especially to the children she longed to protect.
The film concludes with Wanda seemingly sacrificing herself to destroy the Darkhold and undo its influence, while America begins her training in the mystic arts. Strange, however, is left with a mysterious third eye, hinting at the lingering effects of his exposure to dark magic. With its blend of horror, action, and emotional depth, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness expands the MCUโs multiverse, setting the stage for future adventures.