Mads Mikkelsen Talks Dr. Strange Villain Role
We’re less than two weeks away from the release of the next film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as Dr. Strange will seek to “open our minds” to the possibilities of magic. While many don’t fear Benedict Cumberbatch’s capability to bring Dr. Strange to life, it’s a different outlook on the villain of the piece, Kaecilius, who is played by Mads Mikkelsen. The actor is beloved for his time as Hannibal Lector in the Hannibal NBC television series.
The MCU has not been kind to its villains, especially in origin films such as this one. They’re usually one dimensional, and thus don’t resonate with audiences. At a press conference, documented by ComicBook.com, Mikkelsen talked about how he tried to make Kaecilius interesting, starting by how he himself saw him.
“I always think all characters as a hero,” he said. “I think we have to look at them that way. The key to any good villain, which I think was very clear from the beginning of this journey, is that they have a point. It’s not completely crazy what they’re saying. That is a point, even in Doctor Strange’s eyes he does believe I have a point, and I think that’s the key for a villain.”
The actor also noted that he talked heavily about the character with director Scott Derrickson, and that they felt he should feel more like a Loki-type character rather than some of the other villains we’ve seen so far.
Doctor Strange releases in theaters on November 4th.