Why Didn't Dormammu Leave Doctor Strange in a Comatose or Near-Death State in 'Doctor Strange'?

In the film Doctor Strange, Dormammu's decision not to leave Stephen Strange (Doctor Strange) in a comatose or near-death state is a pivotal moment that drives the narrative forward. This choice is rooted in various factors, from the nature of Dormammu’s character and motivations to the storytelling convenience of the filmmakers.

Overconfidence and Arrogance

One of the primary reasons behind Dormammu's decision is his overconfidence and arrogance. Dormammu, as a powerful and arrogant being, may have underestimated Stephen Strange's resourcefulness and resilience. His arrogance led him to believe that he could easily defeat or dispose of Strange without giving much thought to the potential for Strange to recover and challenge him again. This overconfidence might have blinded Dormammu to the idea that keeping Strange alive, albeit in a weakened state, could pose an ongoing threat.

Desire for Total Control

Dormammu's ultimate goal is to dominate the Earth and eliminate any threats to his plans. By keeping Strange alive even in a weakened state, Dormammu leaves room for Strange to recover and eventually challenge him. This strategy ensures that the threat of Strange is always present, necessitating continuous efforts to neutralize him. If Dormammu had left Strange in a comatose or near-death state, he could have eliminated the immediate threat more definitively but would have lost the strategic advantage of having Strange as a potential long-term opponent.

Narrative Convenience

In terms of storytelling, the failure of Dormammu to fully incapacitate Strange serves to highlight Strange's ingenuity and determination. The plot heavily relies on Strange's ability to negotiate with Dormammu through a time loop, which showcases his growth as a character. If Dormammu had left Strange in a comatose or near-death state, the heroic journey and the narrative arc would have been significantly altered, potentially losing the emotional and dramatic impact of Strange’s resilience and strategic genius.

The Nature of the Dark Dimension

The Dark Dimension, where Dormammu resides, operates under different rules of time and reality. Dormammu's understanding of these dimensional mechanics might differ from Strange's, leading to a less strategic decision. In this dimension, the consequences of leaving Strange alive might not have been as apparent to Dormammu as they are in the mortal realm. This discrepancy in understanding could have influenced his choice to keep Strange alive, despite the risks involved.

Overall, Dormammu's decision to keep Strange in an incapacitated but not completely defeated state reflects his character traits and serves the narrative by allowing for Strange's eventual victory through cleverness rather than sheer power. This decision adds layers to the story, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.

The filmmakers chose to simplify this aspect of the plot, focusing on the spectacle of the battle and the ultimate negotiation that required Strange to be alive and visible. This approach made the story more accessible to a wide audience, ensuring that the central conflict remained engaging and dramatic.

In conclusion, Dormammu's decision not to leave Doctor Strange in a comatose or near-death state was a strategic move driven by his overconfidence, the need to maintain a long-term threat, and the necessity of the story's narrative. It adds depth to Dormammu's character and highlights the determination of Doctor Strange in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.