The MCU’s Most Controversial Director Is the Only One to Do a Major Character Justice

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In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s common for characters to be directed by multiple filmmakers due to time constraints and the need for variety. For instance, Tony Stark has been under the guidance of Jon Favreau, Joss Whedon, Shane Black, Jon Watts, and the Russo brothers. Thankfully, Robert Downey Jr.’s performance as Tony Stark remains consistent across these directors. However, not all MCU characters are so fortunate, as some actors have had to adjust parts of their performances to align with different director’s visions.

In “Thor: Ragnarok”, Chris Hemsworth significantly alters Thor’s character, as director Taika Waititi opts to emphasize the eccentric side of a being who wields lightning powers. Meanwhile, Thor isn’t alone in experiencing a significant transformation within this film. Waititi also seizes the chance to delve into the comic book origins of another key hero, temporarily embracing their roots for an exciting phase.

Doctor Strange Dons a Major Part of His Comic Book Costume in Thor: Ragnarok

As a seasoned movie reviewer, I embark upon recounting my experience with ‘Doctor Strange.’ The film finds our protagonist, Stephen Strange, abandoning his worldly pursuits in favor of mastering the mystical arts under the tutelage of Kamar-Taj’s enigmatic Masters. Motivated by a desperate need to mend his shattered hands and resume his surgical career, he leaps into this new realm with eager determination.

However, the journey proves less smooth than anticipated as an ominous sorcerer launches an assault on Kamar-Taj. With the Ancient One succumbing to this threat, Strange finds himself thrust into the role of Sorcerer Supreme – a mantle he must wield to thwart Dormammu’s impending Earth invasion.

Eventually, our hero vanquishes his foe, only to return to New York and employ his newly-acquired abilities to safeguard the planet from emergent perils. The film serves as a compelling introduction to this complex character, brimming with tantalizing glimpses into the magical world that awaits further exploration.

One of the initial individuals to catch his attention is Loki, accompanied by his brother, who arrive on Earth seeking their father, Odin. Eager to prevent the Trickster God from causing more havoc, Strange teleports both Asgardians to the Sanctum Sanctorum. In an homage to the comics, where Strange often dons yellow gloves with his blue and red attire, this sorcerer is seen sporting a vivid yellow pair of gloves. Director Waititi’s affection for the original source material is evident in Ragnarok, but many other directors do not continue this trend, leaving out the gloves from Strange’s wardrobe. While most of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) parts ways with Waititi’s unique touch, it proves to be a wise decision, as he struggles to maintain the plot in his subsequent endeavor.

Thor: Love and Thunder Never Reins Itself in

Given the immense popularity of Ragnarok, it’s hardly surprising that director Taika Waititi revisits this beloved narrative in Thor: Love and Thunder. The film takes inspiration from the comic book storyline where Jane Foster, struck with cancer, seeks a means to prolong her life. Upon discovering her, Mjolnir, Thor’s hammer, bestows upon her formidable abilities. However, when she’s not in godlike form, the cancer persists and jeopardizes her existence. To complicate matters further, Gorr the God Butcher is on a rampage across the cosmos, intent on eradicating gods from existence. Despite the grim circumstances, Thor maintains his characteristic humor and lack of seriousness regarding the situation.

Although Love and Thunder maintains a similar tone as its predecessor, the humor falls short, resulting in an overall inconsistent feel. Despite this, Waititi remains faithful to the eccentricities of the comics, featuring characters like giant goats and Eternity. Regrettably, with Waititi’s future involvement in MCU films uncertain, he can take pride in being the sole director to capture Doctor Strange’s unique corner of the universe.

Thor: Ragnarok is streaming on Disney+.

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2025-09-11 20:12