REVIEW: Thor: Ragnarok is a Laugh Out Loud, Good Time
Thor: Ragnarok is a laugh out loud, good time, guaranteed to please movie fans. The newest addition to the Marvel universe is easily the funniest film in the franchise.
The third installment sees Thor (Chris Hemsworth) trying to get back to Asgard to prevent the Goddess of Death, Hela (Cate Blanchett) from destroying his home. However, he is currently stuck in SaKaar, another world ruled by the Grandmaster (Jeff Goldblum). Thor can only leave by defeating the Grandmaster’s champion and, unbeknownst to those who reside in SaKaar, Thor’s “friend from work”, The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo).
Director Taika Waitit has found the perfect blend of comedy and action in this film while staying true to the mythical story of Thor. The movie has a much lighter tone compared to the previous two films, which makes for a fun superhero movie.
Hemsworth returns as Thor and, once again, does a great job portraying the God of Thunder. It is obvious how at ease he is with this character this go around and Hemsworth definitely has more fun playing up the comedic side of the character rather than the stiff, more serious, version seen in the first two films. Mark Ruffalo was an enjoyable addition to Thor’s world as his character The Hulk. This movie allows fans to see the funnier side of the Green Monster and of Banner. Hemsworth and Ruffalo are comedic gold together and their joy at playing off one another is obvious.
Tom Hiddleston returns as Loki, the former Avenger’s antagonist and Thor’s brother. Like past Marvel movies, Hemsworth and Hiddletston’s banter as Thor and Loki will have the audience laughing in their seats. Tessa Thompson joins the crew as the strong-headed and fierce Valkyrie while Cate Blanchett dazzles as Marvel’s first female villain, Hela. Blanchett’s portrayal of the Goddess of Death is delicious making it hard to decide to love her or hate her.
The third movie in the Thor series, Ragnarok is a lighthearted, enjoyable experience. This is definitely a movie to see in theaters and one worth seeing in IMAX. Maybe don’t spend money on the 3D version if you don’t have to, but the movie is an delightful ride, start to finish. Definitely plan to see Thor: Ragnarok in theaters this weekend.
Grade: A-