Kevin Feige Talks If Doctor Strange Will Be A Horror Movie

Scott Derrickson was recently announced as the director for Marvel Studios’ upcoming Doctor Strange film. Derrickson’s filmography thus far is comprised entirely of horror films, such as Sinister, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, and his most recent work, Deliver Us from Evil.

This naturally leads fans to wonder if Doctor Strange will be a horror movie. Marvel’s films often flirt with other genres while remaining firmly in the superhero vein, and many of Strange’s enemies are supernatural in nature, so the film going that route would make some sense.

Here’s what Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige had to say when the question was posed to him by Empire Magazine:

I would say you can certainly look at the past work of the filmmakers we hire as a bit of an indication for the tone of the movie, but not necessary everything. The Russos, who are well known for their sitcoms, there is nothing sitcom about The Winter Soldier! No, I wouldn’t say just because he has only done horror movies means that Doctor Strange is going to be a horror movie. It means he is a talented filmmaker who we think could add something unique and very fresh to the particular franchise. But there could be scary moments. There are scary moments in all our movies! There are some scary people that Strange has to deal with, I will say.

Sounds like we shouldn’t assume anything just yet, but we shouldn’t be shocked if Derrickson brings a dark tone to the piece. Horror might be too strong of a vibe for Marvel’s family friendly universe, but dark fantasy in the Hellboy style might not be too much of a stretch.

Doctor Strange‘s release date is still unannounced, but will be part of Marvel Studios’ Phase 3 plans.