According to comicbook.com and comicbookresources.com, Tilda Swinton (known for her performances in such movies as Adaptation, Michael Clayton, Burn after Reading, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Only Lovers Left Alive, and many more) has reportedly been offered the role of the Ancient One in the upcoming Doctor Strange film. Should talks go through and the deal finalized, she will play Steven Strange’s (Benedict Cumberbatch) mentor, a Tibetan mystic who is portrayed as male in the comics.
According to comicbookresources.com:
Marvel Studios’ upcoming “Doctor Strange” film could be adding an Oscar-winner to its ranks: Tilda Swinton is reportedly “in negotiations” to join the film’s cast, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
If the deal comes to pass, Swinton will play Strange’s mentor the Ancient One — traditionally depicted in Marvel Comics as a male character. THR reports that Marvel Studios was originally looking for a male actor in the role before changing plans and pursuing Swinton. The Ancient One was first introduced in 1963’s “Strange Tales” #110 by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko — the same issue as Doctor Strange’s debut.
This wouldn’t be the first comic book-based film for Swinton, who appeared in 2005’s “Constantine,” based on DC Comics antihero John Constantine, plus 2014’s critically acclaimed “Snowpiercer.” She won the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for her role in 2007’s “Michael Clayton.”
Directed by Scott Derrickson and starring Benedict Cumberbatch in the title role, “Doctor Strange” is scheduled for release on Nov. 4, 2016.
Thanks to Jada for sending us the heads up.
Sources: comicbook.com and comicbookresources.com
Header image courtesy of ELLE magazine.