The highly-anticipated sequel to Doctor Strange, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, is set to hit theaters this May. While fans wait for the sequel, some have been discussing whether or not the project could actually have an R-rating. While Disney’s Marvel films have all been traditionally rated PG-13, some fans believe that Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness could have some kind of R-Rating attached.
This was first popularly noted in a Reddit post from 2020. The user asked if the film would be “Rated R,” and while it’s more than likely PG-13, there is some merit to the question. Especially when you take a look at who’s attached to the film and its subject matter.
First, here’s what the Reddit user mentioned:
Not a meme but, Doctor Strange 2 is Rated R?
byu/ApolloTheGreatTurtle inmarvelmemes
Secondly, it’s worth noting that director Sam Raimi is tackling this project. While previous superhero films directed by Sam Raimi, such as the original Spider-Man trilogy, were all rated PG-13 – he’s notorious for handling a number of projects with R-Ratings as well. This includes his superhero-inspired film Darkman. And considering this Doctor Strange sequel is at times horror-inspired, it makes sense that this would lean more towards the R-Rating. Especially since most of Sam Raimi’s other horror projects, like Evil Dead 2 and Army of Darkness, are R-Rated.
Thirdly, it’s been noted by Maxblizz that there could actually be two versions of the film. One would be the PG-13 version edited for theaters, and another R-Rated version for home video. While this would also be a first for Disney’s theatrical films, there always is a first time for everything. As Marvel expands into darker and edgier projects, this could become a new norm. Of course, for now all of this information should be taken with a grain of salt. But it does make for an interesting discussion.
Sam Raimi directed Doctor Strange 2, otherwise known as Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, from a screenplay written by Jade Bartlett and Michael Waldron. The film’s cast includes Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong, Rachel McAdams, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Xochitl Gomez.
Audiences will be able to see Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness when it hits theaters on May 6, 2022.