While rumors swirled during this year's Comic-Con that Joaquin Phoenix was talking to Marvel about taking over the lead role in Doctor Strange, the panel came and went, and no news came out. But it seems like the final parts of the contract are being finalized now.

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Collider reported on Thursday that the Her and The Master star is in final talks with Marvel to take over the role of Doctor Strange. They added that right now the length of the contract is uncertain.

It was reported earlier this week that Boardwalk Empire actor Jack Huston was on Marvel's list as well but it seems like their top pick is going to bite.

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According to Collider, "we're hearing that Phoenix is absolutely still in line to play Doctor Strange in the Marvel adaptation, with our source telling us that his contract is essentially at the 1 yard line, about to pass into the endzone," the site said.

"Though some believed the length of time it's taken for Phoenix to finalized his deal was a sign that things might have gone south, it makes sense that an actor of Phoenix's caliber and temperament would want to ensure that his Marvel contract doesn't restrict his creative freedom to take on other projects outside the MCU."

While Marvel was most likely ready to go during Comic-Con, the clause that Phoenix wants to have room for his creative freedom is probably what has delayed the announcement. The actor has been garnering Oscar nominations in films made by Spike Jonze, Paul Thomas Anderson, and is currently working with Woody Allen so he wants to keep his options open.

But having the Marvel deal is a big get for both the actor and studio as it allows him to make a steady paycheck and do the indie stuff he loves while Marvel snags one of the best actors in the business who will likely create a character that fans will love.

Doctor Strange is expected to open in theaters in 2017.

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Doctor Strange, Movies, Joaquin Phoenix