Thor: The Dark World

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Stellan Skarsgard, Kat Dennings, Idris Elba, Ray Stevenson, Tadanobu Asano, Jaimie Alexander, Christopher Eccleston, Zachary Levi, Rene Russo, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje
Directed by: Alan Taylor
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Adventure
2013

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: The Dark Elves are bent on obtaining the Aether and plunging the universe into darkness. Only Thor (Chris Hemsworth) stands in their way.

Review:

Tim: I was shocked by how much I enjoyed the first Thor movie and I was really looking forward to Thor: The Dark World. I was a little disappointed with Marvel's first film of Phase Two, Iron Man 3. That was still a good movie, but easily the worst of the Iron Man franchise. This film was certainly an improvement over that film and gets really, really close to the first Thor. In short, this is another great movie by Marvel.

Director Alan Taylor was determined to make this a grittier, dirtier version of Thor. Kenneth Branagh's original film felt shiny and new. This film feels much more lived in, and is better for it. I loved how Asgard was depicted in this film. The city and the battles just feel more dangerous and real, like actual consequences may result from the events on screen. This really gives the movie a good quality.

I loved the concept of the Aether and it's ability to plunge the universe into darkness. I did feel like the Dark Elves were unfortunately underdeveloped villains. It took me a few moments to remember Malekith was the chief villain, and I can't tell you much else about it. The first film succeeded because Loki was such a terrific, incredible villain. This movie suffers because the main antagonist just isn't as interesting. Luckily, we still have Loki's presence, which helps the movie immensely.

The biggest challenge with this budding franchise is how to make Thor a fascinating character. Inherently, he's not all that interesting. He is the Thunder God, a perfect warrior. Loki is interesting because of his twisted, tormented persona. Thor isn't as immediately fascinating. This film does a good job of portraying him in a way that is relatable, but he'll never compel audiences the same way a Tony Stark does. I thought Chris Hemsworth did a good job playing Thor once again. He might not be the greatest actor in the world, but he certainly looks the part. Tom Hiddleston was once again excellent as Loki.

The supporting cast is excellent. Natalie Portman is such a good actress- it's just too bad Jane Foster really doesn't have much to do. Anthony Hopkins is great as Odin and I always love seeing Rene Russo. Jaimie Alexander is good as Sif, but she got shortchanged in this film. I was glad to see Idris Elba's role expanded some, but Ray Stevenson and Zachary Levi (who replaced what's his name) both have scaled down roles. Stellan Skarsgaard's presence is always welcome and Kat Dennings again provided good comedic relief. As a whole, this movie boasts a very strong cast of talented actors.

The movie has some very good action sequences. The opening fight against the rock giant was a bit anticlimactic, but still fun. The battle at Asgard was really well executed, and I loved the twisting flying ships. The big finale is very cool, as Thor and Malekith slip through portrals around the universe (and Thor's hammer tries to keep up). While the big climax is a little fast, it's still quite effective on screen.

While I'd rank Thor: The Dark World just slightly under Thor, it's so close. That is a really good thing- for a sequel to be a toss-up in terms of quality. I very much enjoyed this movie and was excited to see Marvel returning to form. This is a great film, and so far, the best film in Phase Two.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Iron Man, Iron Man 2, The Incredible Hulk, Captain America: The First Avenger, Thor, The Avengers, Iron Man 3