Thor (2011)

Rating: 8/10 (13 December 2011)

I'm a big comicbook movie fan and a moderate comicbook fan. I've never really been too familiar with the character of Thor, other than his appearance in an Incredible Hulk TV movie. I knew he was arrogant, confused, and a great warrior. I've also seen him in a few animated movies too. Like many fans, I await the arrival of The Avengers, but at the same time I hoped this wouldn't turn into a suppressive prequel like Iron Man 2.
This was one of the most enjoyable film experiences in quite some time. It nailed everything that a summer blockbuster adventure movie should have. Action, comedy, romance (even if a tad forced), and great set pieces and supporting characters. Hemsworth plays Thor, as an arrogant tool. He thinks he knows it all, and can do it all. After being banished from his realm, a beautifully constructed Asgard that mixes CGI with more traditional set design, he arrives on earth with no powers. While his mischievous brother assumes control of Asgard.
Thor, as a movie, has a lot to do. It has to kick start its own franchise, follow into The Avengers, all the while, mixing the world of Gods and magic, with our human world. It was never going to be an easy task so Branagh was the perfect choice. With his time in Shakespeare, he can do the classical, the drama, the tragedy, and the comedy. All of which is present and has plenty of space to breathe. The humour is difficult to get right, as this is Fish-out-of-water stuff. It's easy to make Thor seem stupid, but Branagh and the writers make him a traveller of worlds. He expects earth to be different, and knows he must at least try and fit in. By the time Thor's friends arrive in a Masters of the Universe fashion, it's clear this film has its tongue in cheek.
On the acting front we get a great bunch. Hemsworth is everything he needs to be and more. His emotional screaming is just as satisfactory as his charm and humour. Hiddleston is the breakout star here. He plays Loki with many layers of complexity, which gradually evolves his frustrated pranks into more devilish acts. Portman is a love interest, and a smart one at that, at least she is able to help the hero in some way. Hopkins is his grand self, and Dennings is a nice if unnecessary addition, which gives her comedic duties allowing Portman and others to focus on the story.
The action sequences are very well handled, although Thor's flying is usually kept at a distance. They never seem too long or too short (looking at you Iron Man 2). This is a great blockbuster and does what it should. Gets me interested in the character, in the franchise, and excited for The Avengers.