thorIt’s hammer time.

Thor

It’s hammer time. Ok, so maybe that was a cliché way to talk about the first blockbuster of the summer movie season; yet it is quite fitting. THOR comes to earthly theaters in explosive fashion and drops the hammer, and I dare say gauntlet, to all the films that dare follow. If you want to top this marvel of an action flick you need to come large and in charge; because this one, in spite of a few faux pas, has it all.

Thor (Chris Hemsworth) has been cast out of Asgard by his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins) and banished to Earth until he can learn a bit of humbleness. Meanwhile on the 3rd rock from the sun, a few scientists are studying some odd weather patterns when Thor literally falls into their lap. Scientist Jane Foster believes him to be who he says he is though her colleagues (Stellan Skarsgård and Kat Dennings) take some convincing. When Shield steps in it is up to Jane to help Thor retrieve his hammer and return to his homeland.

First of all you have to understand that this is Marvel Comics. It isn’t an Oprah Winfrey Book Club best seller. So sure the story is going to be hokey at times and the characters a bit far fetched. But the point of these films is not plot lines but super effects, mingled with superhero loyalty and honor. And with Thor you get that and more.

I am not a fan of 3D outside the realm of animation and have seen few live action films in which it is a benefit more than a hindrance. Even in this one there are moments of graininess and blurry lines. But for the most part the 3D is fine. You almost can overlook it when you get a glimpse at the world of Asgard. The graphics are spectacular and the characters rich in detail. These elements are so vital in capturing the other world. The contrasts to Thor’s home and Earth have to be strikingly different. And they are.

Another key to Thor is that he has to be God-like yet still in human form. Chris Hemsworth really bulks up for this one which added to his Australian good looks makes him the perfect God of Thunder. In fact, the female scientists seem to have a hard time staying professional and not melting every time he smiles in their direction. This was one element of the story that got a little stale after a while. I think it dumbed down Jane’s character more than needed. But again it is Marvel so we just have to go with it.

Thor is rated PG-13 mainly for the action violence and some scary images. Of course when Thor takes his shirt off in one scene my stomach suddenly became offensive to me. There are a few mild expletives but they are rare. Add in the life lessons that are conveyed about humility, honor, and wise leadership and you have a film that family members can see and have fun at and even talk about later if they want. With the addition of Portman and Dennings it also gives it a girly feel that removes some the testosterone edge. Bottom line this was a great way to kick off this years blockbusters and if it is even close to what we are in for, this is going to be an amazing summer season. I give it 4.5 out of 5 rainbow bridges. Now to do some sit ups…

Matt Mungle

Review copyright 2011 Mungleshow Productions. Used by Permission.

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