Big surprise: Marvel Studios has released another hit.
On Nov. 3, the third installment in the Thor series, and the seventeenth in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Thor: Ragnarok, was released. With much of the MCU hype directed toward Avengers: Infinity War, it was easy to overlook Thor. However, for anyone that went to the theater to check out the return of the God of Thunder, they were treated to a sci-fi/fantasy epic that was nonstop fun.
Thor: Ragnarok is one of the most entertaining Marvel films to date, and was released during a year in which, in this critic’s opinion, Marvel has struggled with using the right amount of humor. Sure, Spider-Man: Homecoming was fantastic in every way, but Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2 had bogged down the plot with too much humor. However, Thor had the perfect balance of humor that children could understand and some that even adult fans would appreciate. They also kept the comedy very situational—characters would make light of the predicaments they were caught up in. It is very true to the character of Thor, and really all of the Avengers.
The usual cast returned to the film, in addition to some new characters and a few cameos. We saw both Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston reprise their roles as Thor and Loki, respectively. Even Anthony Hopkins returned briefly in the first act to play Thor’s father, Odin. However, we also saw The Hulk for the first time since Avengers: Age of Ultron, as well as an appearance by Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange. The most important new character introduced was Valkyrie, portrayed by Tessa Thompson. Marvel is often criticized for its inclusion of female heroes, but Valkyrie looks to be one of the best female characters in the history of comic book movies. She is strong, powerful, and an overall relatable character.
Marvel is often criticized for their villains, but this was the movie’s strength. Thor: Ragnarok introduced Hela, The Goddess of Death, who was portrayed by Cate Blanchett. Hela comes to conquer and gain control of the throne of Asgard. With a very interesting backstory, ruthless nature, and imposing presence, she is one of the best villains we have seen in the MCU.
The film is a fun experience. It really makes the point that Thor’s home world of Asgard is in the cosmos, and we get to explore the mystical side of that. The movie also serves as fantastic buildup for Infinity War, as the Avengers will soon have to prepare for a battle against Thanos, the Mad Titan.
Overall, Thor: Ragnarok was a fantastic installment to a series that really needed a true hit. Thor had never been done justice in his own movies, and it was refreshing to see a great character in a great film, surrounded by both old and new characters. Get to the theater to check out Thor: Ragnarok, because the God of Thunder is the best he’s ever been!