Marvel Studios have built one of the most successful movie franchises in history, with each title exceeding their genre’s standards for creativity and enjoyability. Their most recent blockbuster, “Doctor Strange,” continues this trend by bringing a new and lesser-known superhero into the fray. This reality-bending, action-packed romp will both entertain viewers and leave them hungering for more.

“Doctor Strange” focuses on the transformation of Stephen Strange (played by Benedict Cumberbatch), a neurosurgeon who suffers a car accident that results in permanent injuries to his hands. Strange desperately reaches out to a mysterious and remarkably complex sorceress known as the Ancient One, but instead of finding the healing he seeks, circumstances force him to help halt a rogue sorcerer’s universe-threatening plan.

While the prospect of yet another origin story may bore some viewers, “Doctor Strange” manages to pull of its own without resorting to cliches. Strange’s development from doctor to magician actually allow the story to thrive and provide Cumberbatch to demonstrate a wide variety of impeccably acted emotions. Unfortunately, this depth doesn’t always translate to other characters. While the Ancient One receives enough screen time for viewers to appreciate her backstory, the movie’s villain Kaecilius lacks fleshed-out motives, adding another name to the long list of forgettable comic book movie villains.

“Doctor Strange” shows its uniqueness in other areas. The movie’s mind-melting visuals and mystical facets (such as Strange’s seemingly sentient cape) explores the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s fantastical side in a way that the “Thor” series hasn’t. Additionally, it breaks away from the superhero formula in some ways: its hero often fights with wit and in secret rather than sheer might for all the world to see.

Critics have foretold the superhero genre’s death for years, but “Doctor Strange” will definitely not be the release to usher in its collapse. Whether it be the well-timed humor, high-quality CGI or engaging main character, “Doctor Strange” excels in nearly every category that makes Marvel Studios’ movies great. If you haven’t already, seeing “Doctor Strange” is worth every penny.