If there is one gripe with the Marvel Cinematic Universe that we hear most consistently, it’s about the stylistic sameness that exists among the franchise’s many films. That an Iron Man movie, a Thor sequel, and a Guardians of the Galaxy picture can all feel like they’re playing within the same creative margins has stricken ire with some fans who’ve come to these entries fueled by their appreciation for these characters’ individual aesthetics. This is why it’s such a relief to see the new trailer for Doctor Strange, which hit San Diego Comic-Con today in the thick of the Marvel Studios panel.

This latest look at the MCU’s upcoming venture into the mystical proves that it’s not skimping on all the surrealistic, cerebral and downright trippy elements intrinsic to the Stephen Strange canon. As guided by The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), the yet-untested sorcerer Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) works his way through the arts of teleportation, energy harnessing, and the highly sophisticated skill of environmental kaleidoscopery.

And although Doctor Strange‘s weirdness may wind up being limited to its imagery, that may be just enough to prove to the above class of disgruntled fans that Marvel is still very much interested in and invigorated by interesting, challenging, and unique stories. These are principals that every character created under the Marvel imprint were founded on. The employment of these same ideas is the best way to bring these characters, now alive on the screen, to their fullest, funnest, and strangest potential.

Featured Image: Marvel/Disney