The 'Her' actor is said to be mulling over whether or not to step out of indie comfort zone and take a blockbuster role.
- Sep 1, 2014
AceShowbiz - It has been quite some time that Joaquin Phoenix is named a frontrunner for Marvel's "Dr. Strange", but the deal has not been sealed yet. Rumor has it, the actor, who has been starring in indie movies lately, is still mulling over the decision as he's reluctant to sign a heavy multi-picture contract.
Badass Digest reports "the problems that have kept the deal from closing remain, and they go beyond the basic fact that Phoenix is balking at the heavy multi-picture contract: Joaquin Phoenix literally doesn't know if he can work on this kind of movie."
The site adds, "The Marvel Studios blockbuster machine is full of pre-viz and fight-viz and green screen and massive reshoots. It's not a world that's as comfortable for him, and he's just not certain he can do it. If Marvel can get past any issues Phoenix has with the larger contract they still have to get over the doubt this terrific actor has about working in this larger environment."
Phoenix once revealed his concern about being famous. "That kind of fame; I couldn't have it in my life," he said in the past. "I love that we can sit on the lawn in Central Park and I'm just one of the millions. I don't want to lose that. I'm trying to figure out the perfect strategy. And it's tough. I just want to be right in the middle."
"Dr. Strange" is expected to be the "doorway" to enter the supernatural side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Scott Derrickson ("Sinister", "Deliver Us from Evil") is on board as director as Marvel eyes a July 8, 2016 release for the film in the U.S.
Prior to Phoenix, Jared Leto, Tom Hardy and Benedict Cumberbatch were linked to the role.
