2. Joaquin Phoenix Is In Final Negotiations For Doctor Strange
We've been hearing that several Hollywood actors are in contention for the lead role in Marvel's upcoming Doctor Strange film; but it looks like the studio has finally found its Sorcerer Supreme. His name was first rumored during last month's San Diego Comic-Con, and now it's (almost) official: Joaquin Phoenix is in final negotiations for the role. Phoenix reportedly went through an extensive negotiation process, becuase of his desire to maintain his artistic freedom to pick-and-choose additional projects as he chooses. Marvel is a studio known for locking their leads down for 6 to 9 film contracts, so Phoenix had to tread carefully before signing on the dotted line. Collider broke the news about his negotiation, saying:
Despite rumors to the contrary, were hearing that Phoenix is absolutely still in line to play Doctor Strange in the Marvel adaptation, with our source telling us that his contract is essentially at the 1 yard line, about to pass into the endzone. Though some believed the length of time its taken for Phoenix to finalized his deal was a sign that things might have gone south, it makes sense that an actor of Phoenixs caliber and temperament would want to ensure that his Marvel contract doesnt restrict his creative freedom to take on other projects outside the MCU.