Tilda Swinton portrays the male character of the Ancient One in "Doctor Strange." (Photo : Getty Images/Andreas Rentz)
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige explained in a recent interview why Tilda Swinton was cast as the Ancient One in "Doctor Strange." Swinton on the other hand, discussed her collaboration with Marvel in coming up with her character's look in the film.
When Swinton was cast as the Ancient One fans were mystified. After all, in the "Doctor Strange" comics the mystical character is a man. Feige defended the actress and explained why she perfectly fits the role. He said Swinton makes a convincing Ancient One, because she has the ability to look androgynous.
"Look, she's a chameleon in everything she does. She can harness this amazing androgynous sense," Entertainment Weekly quoted Feige as saying.
This is why in the movie the Ancient One has no distinct gender. Feige said the character's sexuality is not an important factor in the film. He added that sometimes the Ancient One is referred to as a "he" or as a "she" in the movie.
Swinton chimed in and agreed with Feige's statements about her character being androgynous. Talking about sexuality in general, the actress said it is all in the eyes of the beholder. She said someone's gender basically depends on what other people use to address the person, whether it would be a she or a he.
One thing though that "Doctor Strange" kept intact about the Ancient One in the movie is the bald head. Swinton agreed to shave her head for her role, as seen in the trailer released for the film on Tuesday. Swinton said she and Marvel both worked together to come up with how her character should look in the movie.
This is not the first time Swinton portrayed a male character in a movie. She also appeared as the angel Gabriel, opposite Keanu Reeves, in the 2005 DC film "Constantine." "Doctor Strange" would be her introduction into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, according to the Hollywood Reporter. However, it is not known yet if she will continue to portray the Ancient One in future Marvel films.
Swinton joins Benedict Cumberbatch (Sorcerer Supreme), Rachel McAdams(Night Nurse), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Baron Mordo) and Mads Mikkelsen in the film. "Doctor Strange" opens in theaters on Nov. 4.
Check out the trailer for "Doctor Strange" below.
