Doctor Strange: Chiwetel Ejiofor On The Changes To Mordo's Character

Fans of Doctor Strange will see a different version of Karl Mordo when its film adaptation hits theaters.

The character, who is played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, will be on far better terms with Stephen Strange on-screen than he is in the comics. Many are curious to see just how different the iconic character will be on film, and Chiwetel was kind enough to address those concerns during a recent interview.

ComicBook.com had the opportunity to visit with Ejiofor during an on-set visit to Doctor Strange, and the actor was eager to talk about his take on Mordo. When he was asked about the character's difference, Ejiofor said he relied on comics to help him construct an overall understanding of Mordo.

"The source material is very, very helpful in trying to construct an overall understanding of him and his relationship to the place, the Kamar-Taj, his relationship to the Ancient One," Ejiofor said.

"In the books, in the source material, it's a much more two-dimensional story in some ways. But one of the richest things about this [role] is really trying to build in all those and finding the other space, and really trying to create something that's very three-dimensional."

The actor went on to say he used the comics to help him suss out the essence of Mordo. From there, Ejiofor said he tried to really understand how the character then changed for the film and fleshed out a more complex take on Mordo.

If you're not familiar with Mordo, then it might be because he's known as Baron Mordo in the Doctor Strange comics. Known as one of Doctor Strange's nemeses, Baron Mordo was once a classmate of the Sorcerer Supreme in Kamar-Taj. They both studied mystical arts under the Ancient One, but Baron Mordo grew jealous of Stephen and his skills. That jealous turned into fear and paranoia, leading Baron Mordo to turn his back on the Ancient One and embrace the dark arts of Dormammu instead.

Ejiofor has talked about Mordo's mysterious role and whether he'd stand as a villain or ally. The actor answered such a question rather diplomatically in a recent interview when he said Mordo was a very complex character.

"Oh, he's a very complex character that, really, I don't think can be nailed down either way, you know," Ejiofor responded. "I guess it's something to experience, is what I'd say."

Marvel's Doctor Strange follows the story of the talented neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange who, after a tragic car accident, must put ego aside and learn the secrets of a hidden world of mysticism and alternate dimensions. Based in New York City's Greenwich Village, Doctor Strange must act as an intermediary between the real world and what lies beyond, utilizing a vast array of metaphysical abilities and artifacts to protect the Marvel cinematic universe.

Doctor Strange will hit theaters on November 4 2016.