Hemsworth's hunky Thundergod plays 2nd fiddle to Tom Hiddleston's delightfully devious Loki

Rating: 7/10 (27 April 2017)

Marvel does fantasy and fish-out-of-water with Kenneth Branagh's "Thor," a superhero film that film that explores different realms to engaging results. While the film tests the burgeoning Marvel cinematic universe's mettle by moving back and forth between contemporary Earth and fantastic kingdoms, two decidedly different narrative and cinematic landscapes, the work appeals with its larger-than-life characters and classic themes. It is a strong and swift action outing.
When Chris Hemsworth's Thor, son of Odin, is cast from his home of Asgard and into southwestern wilds of Earth, the god-prince finds himself tested by old enemies and dangerous, new forces. This premise sets up a classic hero quest; but the narrative movement between the fantastic and the Earth-bound can be jarring. The two sides of the plot are both robust, but there is little easy connection between them. Still, the operatic Asgard moments somehow bolster the comparatively simple New Mexico segments. The story packs surprisingly potent romance, exhilarating heroism, and invigorating world-building into its mix of old-world and contemporary mythology.
Branagh weds the two sides of the narrative, steeping each in effective designs and visual styles of its own. Asgard is colorful and royal, while Earth is suitably genuine. The production gleams, and action beats are sturdy and thrilling. The cast is inspired, and Hemsworth makes a mighty addition to the canon but Tom Hiddlestons, mischievous Loki completely steals the show. Branagh's steady directorial hand balances tones, mythologies, and aesthetics while keeping a focus on the film's characters, story beats, and spectacle.
"Thor" could have easily taken a torn toward camp based on its very nature, but it is able to allow its disparate sides to coexist without lapsing into silliness. Thanks to its direction, cast, and committed sense of self, the film succeeds. "Thor" proves the viability of the Marvel cinematic universe's ability to take stylistic and narrative risks, and it all makes for an rousing, entertaining experience.