So what's next for Benedict Cumberbatch? The British actor who is known as the lead actor in the television crime drama "Sherlock" will be seen more in theaters. After playing the role of British genius mathematician Alan Turing in the movie "The Imitation Game," Cumberbatch is now set to become a superhero as it has been reported that he will be the lead in the upcoming "Doctor Strange" movie.
According to an exclusive report by Deadline, Cumberbatch has already been chosen but negotiations are still to be done.
"The news comes after talks with Joaquin Phoenix around the time of Comic-Con went south, and Marvel went back to the drawing board. With names like Jared Leto and Tom Hardy also in the mix, this is obviously a coveted role. I expect this deal to make," the report said.
The movie will be directed by Scott Derrickson, known for the movies "The Exorcism of Emily Rose", "The Day the Earth Stood Still", "Sinister", and "Deliver Us from Evil."
Meanwhile, Jon Spaihts will write the script. Deadline noted that the first draft was written by Thomas Dean Donnelly and Joshua Oppenheimer. "Doctor Strange" was originally created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. The film will be produced by Kevin Feige.
"'Doctor Strange' is a neurosurgeon who becomes Sorcerer Supreme, protecting Earth against magical and mystical threats with powers of sorcery, mysticism, and martial arts," Deadline said.
According to the British newspaper The Telegraph, the "Doctor Strange" role was originally being pitched to American actor Joaquin Phoenix, known for his roles in movies "Gladiator" and "Walk the Line." It also added that Marvel already had several talks with Phoenix but the actor has not accepted the offer.
Huffington Post said that after Phoenix refused the deal, Marvel has lined up several other actors for the role. The names of actors Tom Hardy, Matthew McConaughey, Ethan Hawke, and Cumberbatch arose. Other names that have floated include Ryan Gosling, Jared Leto, Justin Theroux, and Keanu Reeves, Hollywood Reporter said.
Cumberbatch and Marvel have not confirmed any of the reports. But Huffington Post quoted Cumberbatch in a July MTV interview saying that he could not play the role as he has a play that will be showed in London.
"As far as I'm aware, even if that was the case, it couldn't work out because I'm doing a little play called 'Hamlet' in London...So I don't think I could even if that was in the cards. It sounds like a fantastic project. It's a shame if I miss out, but who knows?" Cumberbatch was quoted as saying.
Hollywood Reporter said that the "Doctor Strange" movie is expected to be release on July 8, 2016.