“Thor: Ragnarok” had a lot riding on its success—the film had to continue Marvel’s hot streak of hit films and setup for “Avengers: Infinity War.” Well, I am pleased to admit that Thor… RagnaROCKED. My awful joke aside, this was an amazing film to send up to the broad and colorful world of the “Thor” comics. From the inspired set designs, character animations, to the intense soundtrack—which much like “Guardians of the Galaxy,” had a distinctly 1980’s feel—and the parade of scene-stealing one liners, this movie never fails to deliver.
Chris Hemsworth is back as the thickheaded, noble and charming god of thunder, Thor, who is on a mission to stop ragnarok, an awful catastrophe, from wiping out his home of Asgard, but he ends up stuck on an entirely different planet. With his hammer gone and friends, old and new, Thor faces his toughest challenges yet.
Right away, this film knocks the previous two Thor films out of the water by finally giving us a true look into the world of Thor, rather than just taking place on earth for a majority of the film. And the cast only adds to the sensation of the film—from his humor, his toughness, and even in his venerability, Hemsworth as Thor is one of Marvel’s best casting decisions.
Aside from Thor, however, the movie incorporates a slew of side characters that are just as animated. Tom Hiddleston is back as Thor’s trickster brother, Loki, and is still as charming and sarcastic as ever. Newcomer, Valkyrie, played by Tessa Thompson, is a welcome addition to the cast, adding much humor and heart to the film. Not to be forgotten is Mark Ruffalo, returning as Bruce Banner and his alter ego, The Hulk. After three years gone from the Marvel movies, it’s a treat to have the green goliath back in action.
With its slew of heroes, the film also introduces villainous characters who certainly add depth to the narrative. The film sports two main threats, Hela the Goddess of Death, played by the wonderful Cate Blanchett, whose devotion to the character is palpable on screen as she plays this utter dastardly vixen. Also, there is the great Jeff Goldblum as the Grandmaster, the corrupt leader of the alien world, Skaar, that Thor is trapped on, and he is a pure hammy delight.
To discuss the film at length would be to spoil it; there are too many surprises, great lines, mind-blowing visuals, and hilarious moments to count. “Thor: Ragnarok” is definitely another hit for Marvel Studios, which will hopefully be followed up by the company’s “Black Panther,” coming out next year.
“Thor: Ragarok” is a wonderful blend of breathtaking visuals, fast-paced action, beautiful designs and animation, and a stellar cast. Simply said, this is one you most definitely cannot miss.
