Saturday, October 21, 2017

Movie Review … Thor: Ragnarok

The third in the series of Thor movies, ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, is huge fun.  Not that the previous ones weren’t, it’s just by now, the Thor franchise and others in the Marvel cinematic universe feel the need to loosen up.  Not taking things as seriously without getting too ridiculous, ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ delivers on what a comic-book flick should be.  Full of wondrous CGI, action and excitement, fans should enjoy this latest Marvel movie as its comic panels are brought vividly to life.

The mighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is in a jam.  Without the aid of his trusty magical hammer, his powers are weakened.  Unfortunately his slackened condition arrives at a bad time as he faces the threat of Hela (Cate Blanchett), the Goddess of Death.  Determined to destroy Thor’s home-world of Asgard, she also wants to wreak hellfire on the universe.  Thor will do anything to break free of his dilemma, including teaming with his deceitful brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston).  He also has to fight the incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) in a duel whose outcome is pivotal to the universe’s survival.

Directed with enormous flair by Taika Waititi, ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ is an entertaining spectacle.  From the first frame, it returns Thor to his colourful comic-book roots in an exciting adventure never letting up.  Waititi’s skill for finding comedy in dire situations aids in providing great escapist watching. That doesn’t mean ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ makes fun of the character but it plays with the established formula with a gleeful twinkle.  Everyone from Hemsworth to Blanchett perfectly express the steady mix of drama and humour whilst taking their characters seriously.

Another appealing element of ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ is the clever script.  Almost two movies in one as Thor battles the Hulk on another planet while Hela reigns supreme on Asgard, swiftly moving through both stories.  There’s never a dull moment or slow spot with the screenplay effectively building to a climatic crescendo.  The CGI doesn’t overshadow the performances or story even though the film looks amazing.  The funky soundtrack deserves praise as it mirrors the 1980’s-style vibe for which the film clearly aspires.

‘Thor: Ragnarok’ is one of the more entertaining Marvel films of the year.  Filled with the colourful gloss a film like this needs, it rounds off the Thor movies in grand style.  Its’ quirky story-telling breathes new energy into an ageless hero that would make any comic enthusiast proud.

 
Movie Review Rating out of 10:  8

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

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