Benedict Cumberbatch to star as Marvel superhero Doctor Strange in new movie

British actor Benedict Cumberbatch will play the starring role in a movie adaptation of Marvel's Doctor Strange, it has been announced.

Confirming the rumoured plans on its website, the publisher revealed that the film - based on neurosurgeon Stephen Strange, who discovers magic powers after a car accident - will be released in late 2016.

“Stephen Strange’s story requires an actor capable of great depth and sincerity,” producer Kevin Feige said.

Marvel describes Doctor Strange as "one of the most powerful sorcerers in existence".

Strange's magical skills include, among other things, matter transformation, teleportation, time travel and mental possession.

According to Marvel, he is also a "skilled athlete and martial artist with substantial medical and magical knowledge".