Doctor Strange director explains how coronavirus movie delays are good, actually

It’s no secret that a lot of movies — basically all of the movies — have had their release dates pushed back by the coronavirus. Black Widow, A Quite Place Part II, Wonder Woman 1984, No Time to Die…we’ll see all of those movies, but not for a while longer. Thanks a lot, plague.

For those of us who love nothing more than to pack into a theater and take in the latest, buzziest release, this is frustrating, but there is an upside, at least according to Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson. The way he figures it, even if these movies are delayed, it’ll be worth it because the extra time spent in the development will ultimately make them better films.

It’s true: Blade Runner was delayed due to a writers strike in 1981, and the movie is famous for its opulent visuals. Point, Derrickson.

It’s also true that Doctor Strange had some incredible visuals, even for a Marvel movie.

So we have a five-month delay to thank for the bit where Stephen Strange’s fingers start growing fingers? I have mixed emotions about that.

But I take Derrickson’s point. Hopefully once this pandemic is past us, the big tentpole releases will be stronger for having some extra time in the oven.

As for Derrickson himself, he will not be directing the sequel to Doctor Strange, the wonderfully named Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. It’s looking like Marvel is courting Sam Raimi for that honor. Derrickson will be fine, though; how could he not be when he’s so good at making calming arguments?

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h/t SyFy Wire