"Thor" (2011) film review

International "Thor" poster

Hello reader!

Interested in seeing Thor? See my view on the film (as well as a little info) for what it counts, hope it helps!

About
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Main Stars: Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, and Stellan Skarsgård

Studio: Marvel Studios

Distributor: Paramount Pictures
UK Release date: 27 April, 2011
Running time: 114 minutes


Brief Plot
Thor is a powerful, but arrogant, warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans as punishment. Once here, Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.
[Click to see Trailer]

Review

The film is visually brilliant, particularly on Thor's home world, Asgard (this part MUST be seen in 3D), with quality acting all around and a great way of introducing the Marvel Comics take of Thor to film-goers. I felt the characters were interesting in general, with Hemsworth bringing tremendous energy in his protrayel of Thor, and having an excellent cast all around. A concern was Portman's place in the film, outside of being Thor's love interest as Jane Foster, but she she worked wonderfully well in both acting and character within the film. Hopkins owned the role of the God of Gods, Odin, playing an already mastered role of strong presence with a great character.

I felt due to the amount of the story put into this, that the substance of it suffered in what is an otherwise interesting plot of family, duty and humility. Key areas would be in Thor's growth as a leader in the making, and more family character development as to feel the love and ill-feeling within the family, particularly for Loki. I'm sure 20 minutes extra of this would work wonders, but it was still good. The action was likeable, but I wasn't amazed. I did hope to see Thor get brutal in a fight, but most of that I had seen/expected after seeing the trailer and various TV spots.

I feel the film was a good start to the 2011 summer films, and a great addition in the build up to "The Avengers" film due next year (which, as well as Thor, will include Iron Man, Hulk, and - releasing in July with his own film - Captain America). Here's hoping the story is less spread as to allow stronger character building and depth in the sequel of this well-crafted and excellently acted film. Superhero fans be sure to wait until after the credits, and be on the lookout for Stan Lee!

Rating

8/10

L-R -> Hemsworth as Thor, Hopkins as Odin, and Hiddlston as Loki

-Harish, out

UPDATE (25-May-2011)

Seeing as how I've been reviewing my films lately and getting a better feel for the reviewing system, I should point out that I had originally appointed this film a "7/10" and have revised that rating to "8/10" as it is a stronger film that the other 7/10's I've rated - deservingly - and this is a quality film despite existing flaws (which strike me as small with more and more thought.)