Thor (2011)

 

Genre: Action/Fantasy                 Time: 1h 54mins                Director: Kenneth Branagh

Quick summary: Thor is exiled by his father, Odin, the King of Asgard, to the Earth to live among mortals. When he lands on Earth, his trusted weapon Mjolnir is discovered and captured by S.H.I.E.L.D.

On paper, the premise for this film sounds like a recipe for disaster with its tale of an otherworldly warrior being transported to modern America; but while the film isn’t mega outside the box or sophisticated, it’s at least a very enjoyable watch. Yes, there are culture shock jokes here and there, but not to the point where it becomes obnoxious, and the “Thor doesn’t understand Earth customs” gags are surprisingly funny. There wasn't a time when I didn't laugh at them.

If anything, it’s Chris Hemsworth that holds this film together through his sheer charisma, he nails Thor’s cocky nature and gives the character so much endearing charm. Some of the jokes could have been corny or flat in the wrong hands, but Hemsworth brings a great sense of comic timing to them, making sure gags hit the right beats. He was honestly the best choice they could have made for him.

Watching Thor being stripped of everything he’s been privileged to, makes for a really appealing arc, as we watch him grow into a more humble man, and he trades arrogance for compassion and makes a wonderful redemption arc. This is one of the best origin stories within the Marvel series, it doesn't overcomplicate things.

One tiny thing I want to note is that I really enjoyed hawkeye's introduction to this film. I found him funny even if it was a bit lacklustre, but I still enjoyed the small glimpse. 

 It’s an incredibly visceral viewing experience though that brings Asgard to life in an unprecedented manner: the realm feels more lived-in and authentic. It makes it far easier to gravitate to the characters and invest in the story when their universe is so convincing and visually stunning. The sound is crisp and well-balanced. Everything seems to fit together organically.

There’s also a poorly developed love story between Thor and Jane. The circumstances of their romance feel extraordinarily forced and the subplot itself feels tacked on. It exists because the plot requires it, but there’s no substance to it. There’s a healthy amount of comic relief that helps make the Earth sequences more entertaining. But I didn't like it if I'm honest. It feels like if Thor met anyone else, he would have equally the amount of feelings for them.

Thor has a clichéd story, some weaker parts and the action is mediocre, but it has its charms with the humour being particularly good with a couple of quite funny moments, some solid acting, good characters and a nice mix of genres. It is far from the best but is one of the better films in the MCU.

8/10

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