Dr Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022), directed by Sam Raimi

Teenager America Chavez has the unique power of travelling to multiple universes, but she can’t control it and demons are chasing her to steal it. Dr Strange is trying to protect her, but accidentally puts her more at risk. Can he deal with multiple versions of himself in alternate universes to save the day? As well as the usual Marvel action and special effects, this film touches on dealing with grief and loss; continually asking what it is to be happy? Apart from Strange’s fellow sorcerers the Scarlet Witch is the only other major Marvel character present, but there are some interesting cameos from Avengers and others in alternate universes – which is a bit of fun, especially Peggy Carter as Captain Britain. Xochiti Gomez , as the talented teen, makes a nice foil to Benedict Cumberbatch’s Steven Strange and Rachel McAdams provides good value as multiple doomed love interest Christine. This film follows on directly from the last Spiderman movie and the Wandavision TV series, but it is not necessary to have seen them to pick up the thread. As always it is too long and it could be argued to be as much horror as sci fi, but despite some clunky dialogue the film is entertaining, sometimes gasp-inducing and occasionally moving.