A little chuckle worthy in places but by all means a homage worthy and visually stunning film, Thor hits cinemas nationwide today. The opening scenes immediately introduce us to Thor and all the main characters such as his brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston), his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins) and his life long friends and trusted compadres Sif (played by the lovely Jamie Alexander) and the Warriors Three.
Considering Branagh is most notable in a directing capacity for his Shakespearean adaptations, this seemed a wayward move for him, into the world of the comic book hero. Luckily for us, he has done a commendable job. Thor doesn’t take itself too seriously. It possesses a tongue-in-cheek humour and sense of adventure that bring the comic book universe to life, while saving the plot from getting bogged down in the loftier Gods vs Demi-Gods themes (Clash of The Titans?).
The acting is wonderful, here’s a sweeping statement; I think I will enjoy every role Natalie Portman will ever play. She seamlessly makes the jump from serious swan to feisty warrior and now to theoretical physicist Jane Foster. Ex-Home-and-Awayer Chris Hemsworth plays an endearing charming-rogue-hero type and newcomer Tom Hiddleston has managed to perfect the icy, dagger look to just the right level of fear inducement.
If you’re well versed on the subject of all things Marvel then Thor may divide you. Yes, seeing Odian come to life was goosebumps territory. Yes, seeing Thor’s rise to manhood and his brother’s fall from grace conjured up nostalgic feelings normally reserved for weddings and funerals. And oh yes, seeing Chris Hemsworth’s cheeky grin and totally ripped bod… well that’s just a plus. The downside is that it runs just a little long and as a stand alone film it’s nothing to get too excited about.
On the flip side, filming is rumored to have commenced on the second installment and The Avengers will be out next year to sort any Thor related cravings. The release date for The Avengers set for May 2012 where Thor will be joined by Captain America, Iron Man and the Hulk. A busy year for Marvel no doubt. [Watch the Thor interactive trailer]
Trish Keenan.
