Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness features several LGBTQ characters, though their identities are not always made explicit in the film. Here’s a look at the queer representation in Doctor Strange 2.
America Chavez
America Chavez, played by Xochitl Gomez, is a lesbian superhero who has the ability to travel between dimensions. In the comics, she is openly gay, though her sexuality is not directly addressed in the Doctor Strange sequel. However, her two moms are briefly shown in a flashback scene, confirming that she has two mothers and implying that she was raised by a same-sex couple.
Blackagar Boltagon
Blackagar Boltagon, played by Anson Mount, is the leader of the Inhumans in one universe. His sexuality is not referenced in the film, but in the comics, Black Bolt is in a same-sex relationship with his male cousin Maximus. So while not stated outright in the movie, Black Bolt can be considered LGBTQ representation.
Captain Carter
Captain Carter, voiced by Haley Atwell, is a variant of Peggy Carter who took the super soldier serum instead of Steve Rogers. In the comics, Peggy Carter is bisexual and has relationships with both men and women. The film does not delve into Captain Carter’s sexuality, but her identity as a Peggy Carter variant implies she is likely also bisexual.
Christine Palmer
Christine Palmer, played by Rachel McAdams, is Doctor Strange’s former love interest and colleague. In one scene, she makes a joke about needing “a guy’s number, or girl’s number, or slime monster’s number” for a date. This line implies Christine may be bisexual or pansexual, showing interest in more than one gender.
Other Possible LGBTQ Characters
While not confirmed, there are some other characters who may be LGBTQ in the Doctor Strange multiverse:
- Wong – Benedict Wong plays Wong, Doctor Strange’s friend and fellow sorcerer. In the comics, Wong has a relationship with another man. The film does not reference Wong’s sexuality.
- Mjolnir – Mjolnir is the magical hammer that grants Thor his powers. In Norse mythology, Mjolnir is genderfluid and takes on feminine and masculine identities at different times.
- Captain Marvel – Lashana Lynch briefly appears as Captain Marvel in one universe. In some comic runs, Carol Danvers is bisexual.
Significance of LGBTQ Representation
The inclusion of LGBTQ characters like America Chavez and the implication of others like Christine Palmer is significant for more queer representation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Here are some key points:
- America Chavez is the first openly LGBTQ hero in the MCU films.
- Her relationship with her two mothers shows a same-sex couple raising a child in the MCU.
- Christine Palmer’s sexuality is the first acknowledgement of bisexuality in the MCU.
- The film subtly signals that alternate universe versions of established characters may share LGBTQ identities with their comic counterparts.
However, some have criticized that more focus is not placed on developing the LGBTQ identities of these characters within the film’s story. But overall, Doctor Strange 2 does take steps forward in LGBTQ representation for the MCU.
Reactions to the LGBTQ Representation
The increased LGBTQ representation in Doctor Strange 2 has garnered both praise and criticism:
Positive Reactions
- Fans and critics welcomed the inclusion of America Chavez as the first queer superhero in the MCU.
- Many were glad to see at least some acknowledgement of bisexuality through Christine Palmer’s character.
- LGBTQ viewers expressed feeling more represented in the popular superhero franchise.
- Some hoped this could lead to more LGBTQ narratives in future MCU films.
Negative Reactions
- Some felt America Chavez and the other queer characters were not given enough development or focus.
- Others criticized the film for including only subtle LGBTQ references instead of having more overt representation.
- Some viewers did not support the inclusion of LGBTQ characters at all.
- Conservative countries censored or banned scenes referencing LGBTQ identities.
There is still room for improvement, but Doctor Strange 2 signifies Marvel’s continued expansion of LGBTQ representation in its cinematic universe.
Conclusion
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness features Marvel’s first openly LGBTQ superhero in America Chavez and nods to the sexuality of characters like Christine Palmer. While limited, this queer representation is an important milestone for the MCU. Fans hope it signals a commitment to further exploring diverse LGBTQ narratives in future films. There is still progress to be made, but Doctor Strange 2 is a step forward for queer visibility in the mainstream superhero genre.