Chiwetel Ejiofor, the Oscar-nominated star of 12 Years a Slave, is in early talks to star opposite Benedict Cumberbatch in Marvel's Doctor Strange. Sources tell Variety that negotiations are at a very early stage but that the studio is big on Ejiofor for a high profile role in the movie.

Chiwetel EjioforChiwetel Ejiofor [L] was Oscar-nominated for his stellar performance in 12 Years a Slave

The specific role in Doctor Strange is unknown as this time, as is the plot details for the movie. 

Several sources have told the Hollywood Reporter that Ejiofor is wanted for a villainous role but other insiders have played that down. Whoever does get that role will probably be playing Baron Mordo, a sorcerer's pupil whose next-in-line status is usurped by Strange - making him the physician's mortal enemy. Another possible role could be that of Wong, the monk servant to Strange who is pretty handy in martial arts. Another possibility could be the Ancient One, a semi-immortal mystic who mentors Strange.

More: Benedict Cumberbatch is confirmed as Marvel's Doctor Strange

Scott Derrickson is directing the movie and casting is still in the early stages of casting and will shoot after work on Captain America: Civil War is complete. Doctor Strange has a release date or November 4, 2016.

Ejiofor was almost set to play the villain in the new James Bond movie, Spectre, but talks never reached completion the Oscar-winner Christoph Waltz was sought instead. Ejiofor previously played villains in Joss Whedon's Serenity and Cuaron's Children of Men. He is currently shooting The Martian with Ridley Scott and stars in Z for Zachariah, which will premiere later this month at the Sundance Film Festival.

Who do you think should play the villain role in Doctor Strange?

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