Earlier this week, we brought you a rumor that Boardwalk Empire star Jack Huston was in consideration for the role of Doctor Strange in Marvel’s forthcoming film about the Sorceror Supreme. But now another actor seems to be the frontrunner, and it’s a name we’ve heard linked to this role in the past: Collider is reporting that Joaquin Phoenix is in final talks for the role, and that Marvel is currently working on closing the deal.
While most actors working in the Marvel Cinematic Universe are tied to lengthy, multi-picture contracts, the extended negotiation period may indicate that Phoenix is angling for a less restrictive arrangement, leaving him free to pursue other projects in addition to his Marvel commitments. If the deal comes together, it would also be something of a departure from the type of work Phoenix has been doing recently, with critically acclaimed performances in The Master and Her standing in stark contrast to the big budget, marquee titles that Marvel releases.
We’ll keep you posted as we learn more. Doctor Strange is currently rumored for a release on July 8, 2016, with Sinister director Scott Derrickson at the helm.
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