The sorcerer is not so magical for Phoenix.
[toggler title=”TL;DR” ]Phoenix explains that the role would impose too many restrictions on his artistic freedoms as an actor, and wouldn’t fulfill his creative needs. [/toggler]
[dropcap size=small]I[/dropcap]t’s no small secret that Joaquin Phoenix came very close to being Dr. Stephen Strange in Marvel’s upcoming movie based on the comic book character, Doctor Strange. The media was all abuzz with news that Phoenix was in final talks with the studio before it all came to a close, and Benedict Cumberbatch eventually swept up the title role instead.
So why did Joaquin drop out at the last minute? Well, in an interview with Timeout, Phoenix explained why the part of the surgeon-turned-sorcerer just wasn’t for him.
He began by saying that he used to turn his nose up at blockbusters when he was younger, and even though he has new-found respect for them, they just aren’t fulfilling enough for him as an actor.
‘When I was younger I was probably a bit of a snob about that. But they’ve gotten better. I’ve flirted with several of those films, having meetings and getting close, but ultimately it never felt like they’d really be fulfilling.’
He then went onto say that a role such as Doctor Strange, fronted by a big studio, would put too many restrictions on his creative freedoms when playing a character.
‘There were too many requirements that went against my instincts for character. I’ve been spoiled. I’ve never had to make those compromises. I’ve not met a director yet with one of those films where we go through the script, they say: “You know what, f**k this set-piece, let’s focus on the character!” I understand, but it’s best I don’t do it.’
It is understandable that as an actor you wouldn’t want the studios requirements to impede on your performance, or how you want to tackle a character. Phoenix clearly likes to have more freedom when taking on a role, and you can’t fault him for sticking to what he feels is best for him as an actor.
It seems that it just wasn’t meant to be, and Phoenix is instead rumoured to be involved in a future project with director and producer M. Night Shyamalan, who’s known for his sci-fi thriller Signs which featured Phoenix, as well other titles such as The Happening and The Sixth Sense.
Benedict Cumberbatch will be starring as Dr. Stephen Strange in the upcoming film alongside the likes of Tilda Swinton and Chiwetel Ejiofor, with rumours that Rachel McAdams and Mads Mikkelsen will also be involved.
Doctor Strange is due to be in theatres 4 November, 2016.
