Joaquin Phoenix to Lead Mavel's DOCTOR STRANGE?

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Marvel is currently in talks with Joaquin Phoenix to lead their upcoming live-action DOCTOR STRANGE film. As previously reported, Scott Derrickson will direct.

Though no deal is dry, a source has confirmed that "he deal is further along than just the offer stage, "

Per THR, "Doctor Strange, who made his first appearance in the Marvel Universe more than fifty years ago in 1963, is a former neurosurgeon who serves as the Sorcerer Supreme -- the primary protector of Earth against magical and mystical threats. The character was first created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko in the pages ofStrange Tales No. 110."

The studio has recently run into trouble with its planned ANT-MAN film, following the news that Adam McKay had backed out of talks to direct, would have replaced Edgar Wright. Wright recently left the project due to artistic differences. Since Marvel wants to keep their July 2015 release date, they've been trying to replace Wright as quickly as possible. As of now, the cast of Ant-Man includes Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Evangeline Lilly, Patrick Wilson and Corey Stoll.

Primarily focused in the horror genre, Derrickson has helmed THE EXORCISM OF EMILY ROSE, and his most recent film, DELIVER US FROM EVIL, starring Olivia Munn and Eric Bana.