One month ago, Marvel Studios confirmed the casting of Benedict Cumberbatch for Doctor Strange and though the film won’t hit theaters until November 2016, the actor is already preparing for his appearance as the Sorcerer Supreme. Speaking with The Wall Street Journal, Cumberbatch was asked if taking on this part was a risk, to which he replied:

“I don’t think it’s a risk because of Marvel. Marvel is a stable of bringing out ordinary comic characters and turning them into screen-like gods. It’s very different, it’s an Astral Plane. There’s a huge new element to this Marvel universe that’s going to be employed in building this story and this character. But you know, I’m really excited about it, about working with Scott [Derrickson] whose imagination is endless, and all the boys and girls at Marvel who know what they’re doing. I’ve got a few things to get under my belt first.”

When asked if he would be heading out to the Himalayas to film for the movie, a place Cumberbatch is no stranger to in reality, the actor said:

“Ahh … you’ll have to wait and see. I’m not going to be eked out on any spoilers or reveals now. It’s quite a way off but I’m very excited about that spiritual dimension, obviously. It’s something that’s been a huge part of my life.”

Cumberbatch was also asked if he had read the Doctor Strange comics while growing up, and though he revealed he hadn’t, the actor confirmed that “You can bet your bottom dollar I’m reading them now, avidly.”

Scheduled to hit theaters November 4, 2016, Doctor Strange is scripted by Jon Spaihts and directed by Scott Derrickson. It is said to follow the story of neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange who, after a horrific car accident, discovers the hidden world of magic and alternate dimensions.