With Marvel’s Phase Three of movies being kicked off with “Captain America: Civil War” earlier this year, “Doctor Strange” is here to continue the new wave of superhero films. While it definitely feels like a Marvel creation, it brings a lot of new elements to the table. Although it has some pacing issues, as a whole it is a beautiful new take on a popular type of movie.

“Doctor Strange” begins as its titular character gets himself into a devastating car accident. When he wakes up days later, Stephen Strange learns that he has suffered severe nerve damage. His hands cannot reliably move, and this effectively ends his career as a neurosurgeon. After desperately searching for a cure with no luck, Strange learns about a place called Kamar-Taj in Tibet. Having run out of options, he travels there and is taken in by a woman known as the Ancient One. However, he gets caught up in a war of forces from alternate dimensions.

Due to the fact that “Doctor Strange” focuses on alternate dimensions, Marvel Studios had more freedom with visuals than they ever have before. Multiple times throughout the movie, Strange experiences visions that showcase vibrant colors. There are also scenes that are reminiscent of M.C. Escher paintings. If nothing else, the movie’s special effects alone make it worth watching, and is one movie where 3D really makes a difference.

However, this does not mean that the movie’s only strength is its pretty sights. “Doctor Strange” features a good cast, as well. Benedict Cumberbatch fits the role of the cocky Stephen Strange perfectly. He has played similar roles before, notably as Sherlock Holmes in “Sherlock,” so he feels right at home here. As the Ancient One, Tilda Swinton is a strong figure that guides Strange. She nails the element of mystery that makes the character so compelling.

At times, “Doctor Strange” is much slower than other superhero movies. Stephen’s injuries cause him to take a long time to hone his powers and learn about himself. It is more of a spiritual story than an action-based one. This is not a bad thing at all. In fact, it makes the film end up feeling refreshing in a genre that might be seen as formulaic. This aspect sets it apart, but it still has the moments of fighting and comedy that people love Marvel movies for.

Strange’s journey is full of self-discovery. He begins as a narcissist but ends as a hero. While Cumberbatch’s perfectly executed wisecracks are certainly amusing, the development that takes place feels much more rewarding as a viewer. The plot of “Doctor Strange” does have some lulls, especially when compared to some other movies from Marvel Studios, but the payoff is worthwhile. It ends up being one of the best origin stories Marvel has produced.

Overall, “Doctor Strange” is a victory for Marvel Studios. As a new film franchise, they clearly decided to try something different, and it worked out. While superhero movies are abundant in Hollywood, if they can follow this movie’s lead, the genre will not become stale anytime soon.