To avoid the stereotypical magical Asian, we cast Tilda Swinton [as the Ancient One].

But, unlike the Ancient One, Wong could be totally reinvented.

What we did with him was essentially invert the stereotypes from the comics.

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Credit: Marvel

In the comics, hes a martial arts-kung fu-sidekick-manservant.

Then Benedict Wong came in and brought an entirely new dimension to that character.

Hes just terrific in the movie.

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Marco Grob/© 2016 Marvel. All Rights Reserved.

The British actor agrees that his character very different character to that found in the original comics.

What were doing is a modern update.

Hes a master of sorcery in his own right.

He is the protector of these books of special incantations at Kamar-Taj.

[But] hes not your average librarian.

Hes sometimes the drill sergeant and hes there to kind of put Strange in check, really.

I think its a really positive step that this character is fightingalongsideStrange.

EW is offering anadvance screening ofDoctor Strangeon Friday, Oct. 28 at EW PopFest.

EW PopFest runs from Oct. 29-30 at The Reef in Downtown Los Angeles.

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