Actor Benedict Cumberbatch in Hong Kong to kick off global promotion of film Doctor Strange
British actor who made name in TV series Sherlock joined by co-star Tilda Swinton ahead of red carpet event
British actor Benedict Cumberbatch has come to Hong Kong to kick off the worldwide promotion of his latest film Doctor Strange, saying he would like to dine on the city’s dim sum as well as take a dip in one of the city’s harbours if time allowed.
Speaking at a press event in West Kowloon on Thursday, the British actor best known to Chinese audiences for his starring role in the television series Sherlock was joined by film co-star Tilda Swinton, film director Scott Derrickson, and Marvel Studios executive producer Kevin Feige.
“Good morning, Hong Kong,” the British actor said to a group of more than 100 reporters.
Cumberbatch emerged in a casual ensemble of T-shirt, cardigan, jeans and trainers, while co-star Swinton wore a velvet trouser suit in bright red.
During the 40-minute press conference, the British actor introduced the film, shared some anecdotes during the shooting, as well as his plans while in Hong Kong. “I came here when I was 13. I went on a junk boat and we sailed to a harbour and I swam. If I have time, I will do that,” he said.
Unlike most of his previous work, the role in Doctor Strange – a character who is skilled in martial arts – could be physically challenging, the actor admitted.
“The physical side of things was a new step up for me,” Cumberbatch said, as there was “a little bit more running around” than for his other roles. “Despite the extraordinary effects you will see in the film, a lot of them were done in person,” he added.
Aiming for an auspicious box office performance, the film’s leads took part in a traditional Chinese ceremony dating 1,000 years old. The actors used a Chinese brush to dot the eyes of small lion dragon costumes in a ritual believed to bring good luck and blessings.
In the film based on a popular American comic book series, Cumberbatch plays a neurosurgeon who has lost the use of his hands in a horrific car accident and discovers a world of sorcery. Swinton plays his mentor.
The film is due to hit local cinemas on October 27, a week before its American release on November 4.
