The Ancient One is coming to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And she’s not who you would expect.
Tilda Swinton is reportedly in talks to join Doctor Strange as the Ancient One, the enigmatic Tibetan mystic who serves as Strange’s’ mentor and friend. Benedict Cumberbatch was cast as Strange late last year.
In Marvel’s comic book universe, the Ancient One was a man who was sought out by Strange after an accident robbed him of his ability to perform surgery. The Ancient One refused to simply cure Strange, and instead taught him the mystic arts that allowed him to become the Sorcerer Supreme. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the character was originally a man in the adaptation before Marvel reconsidered the part.
Swinton is no stranger to genre, with appearances in DC’s Constantine movie, The Chronicles of Narnia, Only Lovers Left Alive (pictured above), and Snowpiercer. Swinton’s next film will be Judd Apatow’s Trainwreck; where she appears opposite Amy Schumer. It should be noted that Swinton’s deal with Marvel has not closed yet, but seems likely.
Scott Derrickson is slated to direct Doctor Strange, which is set to be released on November 4, 2016. It’s unclear which characters will be included within the movie besides Strange and the Ancient One, but Wong, Clea, and Baron Mordo appear to be safe bets.
What do you think about Tilda Swinton’s potential role as the Ancient One? What other characters do you want to see in the film? Cast a spell and let us know in the comment section below!
