The Marvel cinematic universe takes another leap forward this Friday with the release of Doctor Strange, their 14th film. With its mystical themes, psychedelic imagery and relatively obscure main character, the film is one of their biggest risks the Marvel cinematic universe (MCU) has taken since initiating this multiphase, interwoven universe back in 2008.

This Thursday, over 20,000 filmmakers, cinephiles and everyday moviegoers will descend on St. Louis for the Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival.