Akting Out

Worthy

While I’m a huge comic book fan, until recently, my preferences have run more towards DC. Even as a Marvel fan, I never really cared for Thor. When the movie was announced, I wasn’t that enthralled by the previews; Sir Anthony Hopkins as Odin was my primary reason for wanting to see this film. Although I read up on recent events on Thor’s timeline to be a little more familiar with what to expect from the movie, I went into this with almost no expectations. I came out believing that Thor may be one of the best films Marvel Studios has ever produced, right up there with the original Spider-Man.

Penned by J. Michael Straczynski (scribe of the incredible Superman: Earth One) and aptly directed by Kenneth Branagh (Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets), Thor is success on almost all levels; stellar character development performed by a top-flight cast, sweeping views of Asgard’s majesty fused with up-close, dirty takes on small-town Earth life, rousing action sequences and story that dares to be just a little original.

Newcomer Chris Hemsworth shines in the title role, displaying all ranges of emotion from arrogant warrior to fallen hero to reborn heir-to-the-throne, and Natalie Portman keeps up in her role as astrophysicist/love interest Jane Foster. She appears to be enjoying herself a lot more in this film than in the last two Star Wars movies. Sir Anthony Hopkins is, as always, brilliant in his portrayal of Odin; here is a king and god who is very much aware of his own shortcomings, especially when it comes to his two children. Every decision visibly weighs heavy on him. Idris Elba (Luther, Daddy’s Little Girls) is impeccable as the all-seeing Heimdall, and Colm Feore (Face/Off) was chilling, pun intended, as Laufey, King of the Frost Giants. The standout performance has to go to Tom Hiddleston, who played the god of mischief so well that he nearly steals the spotlight from Thor. This story is not just about Thor’s beginning’s; it’s about Loki’s as well, as he discovers his true origins and turns sibling rivalry into a very deadly battle with millions of lives on the line. What I liked most about Tom Hiddleston’s performance is that I couldn’t help but pity Loki and the little-brother syndrome, despite everything he does, in the end, he just wants to be loved and adored like his big brother. Tom Hiddleston brought plausibility and humanity to the role of Thor’s arch-nemesis, and in my opinion, is the best role in the film.

The soundtrack and scenery are epic; ranging from the glorious, beautiful city of Asgard to the dusty streets of middle America, this is a gorgeous film. This is also testament to the proper use of 3D, which may not have been necessary for this film to succeed, but its usage here is subtle and hardly noticeable, without inducing headaches. This is the best 3D film I’ve seen since Tron: Legacy.

We’re also treated to a cameo appearance of Clint Barton (future Avenger Hawkeye) well-played by Jeremy Renner (The Hurt Locker).

Overall, comic book fan or not, almost all moviegoers should enjoy this film. It has a compelling, well-executed story, beautiful scenery, a moving soundtrack, and a good sense of humor. Whosoever shall see this movie shan’t be disappointed, but thy fans eagerly awaiting the Avengers film hast more to look forward too.

PS: Want a second opinion? Hop over to Josiah Muskrat’s Facebook page and check out his review of Thor.

Thanks for reading.

(c) Avery K. Tingle for Akting Out LLC

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