Recently, I had the pleasure of seeing an advanced screening of the Marvel Comics latest hero-turned Hollywood movie, Thor. In following the successful Iron Man franchise, and the soon to be released Captain America and Avengers movie, Marvel seems to be getting their continuity together for a very good set of films, which is a nice change of pace being that Marvel hasn’t been able to do the same for their latest books to save their lives. Perhaps Marvel needs to brake down and have a “Crisis.” That however, is not what this is about–this is about The Mighty Thor. Thankfully, here Marvel has another strong film on their hands. “Thor” is everything you’ve come to expect from a Marvel movie; it’s fun, action-packed, epic and widely accessible to comic fans and non-comic fans alike. As with all Marvel films to date, you should stay to the very end. Yes, suffer though the horrible Foo Fighters song–trust me, it’s worth it!
Based on Norse mythology, the story revolves around the god-of-thunder Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and Loki (Tom Hiddleston) as they fight for their father’s approval and respect. But when King Odin (Sir Anthony Hopkins) chooses Thor as heir and future King of Asgard, tempers get the better of these hot-blooded men and Thor eventually finds himself banished to Earth, where he meets astrophysicist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman). With the help of the Lady Sif, The Warriors Three, and a few surprise characters here and there, Thor must stand against his evil brother and unite the Nine Realms.
Epic is the only word I truly feel I can use to describe this film. The director, Kenneth Branagh, crafted a very strong adaptation of the Thunder God and his struggle to come to terms with his banishment to earth. Each character in this film has been well thought out, each has purpose, and you truly believe in them as heroes. Without giving too much away, be prepared for a fun filled ride. I haven’t had this much fun watching a comic book movie in a long time.
One of the main reasons I think this movie works so well is the acting. Chris Hemsworth fully embodies Thor with all the energy, passion, arrogance, and blundering foolery you’d come to expect from a mythical warrior who condemns himself to Earth. Hemsworth owns his role–from the very first line you believe the man can bring the lighting down from the heavens. His co-star Natalie Portman was good as per usual. She brings a sweet and loveable quality to Jane Foster, which causes the audience to want her to succeed as a character. Altogether, the film remains wholly intriguing largely because of its cast. Odin, The Warrior’s Three, Sif, and Heimdall, (played by Idris Elba–who’s a bad ass,) all help make this movie work. The number one character who stood out for me, however, was Tom Hiddleston’s Loki. Hiddleston works as the main villain so well–he oozes creepy from first scene to last. The way Loki talks and moves, gives you a feeling of pure evil that is in pursuit of personal gain and revenge.
This film is not like comic book films of the past where you wonder if the filmmakers have actually read the comic. Instead, you feel from the start that a lot time and history was put into getting Thor just right–whether you’re reading Walter Simonson’s run, the Ultimate Universe, or the recent Straczynski work. It seems as though all were read and taken into account for this film. Along with Branagh’s added touches here and there, everything comes together to make one hell of a comic book summer blockbuster that I truly loved. Of all the Marvel films to date, I believe this to be my favorite thus far. But who’s to say–with so many new films lingering in the wings, ready for the chance to shine–I might be persuaded otherwise. All I do know is that it’s a great time to be a comic book fan and I look forward to the ride!