In light of the race-fueled backlash, here’s some encouraging news.
For better or worse, Marvel took some creative liberties with Doctor Strange, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the Sorcerer Supreme. Chiwetel Ejiofor’s Baron Mordo will at least be starting out as an ally; if he ever makes a villainous turn in this film we still don’t know. Meanwhile, the role of the Ancient One, typically portrayed as an elderly Asian character, has been assumed by Tilda Swinton — a reveal that sparked a controversy over claims of white-washing.
Another change coming to the film pertains to Benedict Wong’s Wong, another character that has been a stereotype in the past. According to the actor, the film is diverting from this representation.
I’m certainly not going to be the tea-making manservant. We’re heading in a different direction. He’s more of a drill sergeant…There isn’t any martial arts for Wong in Doctor Strange, actually, he’s more of a drill sergeant to Kamar-Taj. He’s one of the masters of sorcery.
A quick FYI, Kamar-Taj is the mystical place in Tibet where the Ancient One trains the next generation of magical disciples, Strange included.
It’s unclear how large of a role Wong plays in Doctor Strange, and it’s equally unclear how dissenters of the film will accept this development in light of the overall race-fueled backlash. Asian representation has become a heated topic of discussion, driven in large part by this film and the Scarlett Johansson-led Ghost in the Shell. We’re also in a time when ignoring diversity can be a blow to revenue. Gods of Egypt is a prime example from this year, and its box-office results reflect that.
Since Doctor Strange came under fire, Marvel has been trying to quell concerns. A statement from the studio reads:
Image via Marvel
Marvel has a very strong record of diversity in its casting of films and regularly departs from stereotypes and source material to bring its MCU to life. The Ancient One is a title that is not exclusively held by any one character, but rather a moniker passed down through time, and in this particular film the embodiment is Celtic. We are very proud to have the enormously talented Tilda Swinton portray this unique and complex character alongside our richly diverse cast.
An upcoming appearance at San Diego Comic-Con with director Scott Derrickson and, presumably, cast members may help, assuming this topic is addressed.
Doctor Strange is scheduled to hit theaters on November 4th.
