Thor Review: Clash of Realms

Returning once again to the pre-Avengers universe, Marvel Studios introduces us to another one of its familiar characters, Thor: God of Thunder. The world we were so thoroughly introduced to in the Iron Man movies and The Incredible Hulk has reached into another dimension and pulled out a godly superhero as the next member. With Thor, this summer starts off with a literal lightning strike and it feels just the same; quick, flashy, and a set-up for something greater, but a bit painful.

Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is a god in the medieval and yet futuristic world of Asgard, an otherworldly dimension humans know little to nothing about. He is set to be the successor to Odin (Anthony Hopkins), his father and king, when invaders from another realm interrupt his coronation. Through an act of courage, and yet foolishness, Thor gets cast out of his world after resurrecting an age-old conflict and sent to Earth until he learns the error of his ways. From there, the movie splits into a comedy about a misfit alien on Earth and a Shakespearean Tragedy.

Because of the contrasting worlds, there are completely different settings, dialogue, and overall feel in Thor. The story on Earth is humorous, fun, and interesting. It also has a wonderful cast to carry it through including Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgard, Kat Dennings and Clark Gregg, all working well together.

The world of Asgard is more of a Lord of the Rings fantasy and this doesn’t quite fit in. So far in The Avengers film series, everyone has gotten their powers from technology or science mishap. Iron Man made his suit while Black Widow, Nick Fury, Hawkeye and others we’ve seen are all very skilled people, and the ones hinted at accidentally fell into superpowers. Thor seems too magical, and is even called magic time and time again. Earth is fantastic because it feels real, but Asgard leaves that dimension completely.

With all that said, Thor is exactly what a summer movie should be. It has dazzling special effects with 3D technology that is nicely done. There’s no shortage of eye candy, whether it’s insane action or looking at our leads, Hemsworth and Portman. They work well as an awkward couple from completely different worlds.

With Thor, you’re getting exactly what you paid for in a summer blockbuster. There are plenty of interesting characters to keep you busy, all with personalities that give off that perfect comic book feel. It’s entertaining, epic, and fun. If you’re a Marvel fan, there are plenty of references to catch, and Stan Lee has one of his best cameos yet.

I’m interested to see where the whole Avengers storyline ends up and how Thor ties into the grand scheme of things. It’s shaping up to be one of the biggest movies of next year. Besides, everyone’s seeing The Avengers. You have to see Thor first.

Remember to stay after the credits.

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