Audiences return to the Nordic realm, of Asgard in “Thor: The Dark World,” sequel to Marvel’s 2011 “Thor,” but this time rather than revolving on a families quarrel gotten out of hand, “Dark World” focuses on just that.
The long-thought extinct dark elves seek revenge on the Asgardians who destroyed their people, and it’s up to the go of thunder, as well as his mischievous brother, to save not only Asgard, but the whole universe.
First thing to know, this is a difficult film to review for two main reasons. First, going into depth isn’t easy considering the abundance of easy spoilers, and they should most certainly not be spoiled. Secondly, the quality of this film bases heavily on opinion.
From a basic film level, “Thor: The Dark World” ranks above average. The amount of work put into the stunning landscape of Asgard can’t even be describe; a marvel that must be witnessed. And huge praise must go to the actors and actresses especially, for my immersion almost never broke during the film. Overall a good film on a basic level.
Now the hard part, whether to criticize based on the normal criteria or let my opinions fly. One point for this film, it managed to expand upon both “The Avengers” as well as “Thor,” building upon the already established characters rather than taking them back a step like most sequels do. And the story most certainly stepped-up from just a simple love story with a cynical younger brother playing his devious tricks on the family. Now that there is a worthwhile adversary, fighting is reasonable. Only thing is, the film never takes the time to build upon this new adversary. We see bits and pieces of him throughout the film, but it’s too overshadowed by the other characters we care about. I have no reason for hating him. Also, when most of the film goes over the relationship of Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and Loki (Tom Hiddleston) it could have been a great chance to make Loki into the villain some how, considering he has every reason to be.
Another large gripe, the lack of pay-off for the minor points of the film. The greatest example would be Thor’s secondary “love,” Sif (Jamie Alexander), tended to give nasty looks towards Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) as a sign of rivalry. Yet in the whole entirety of the film, not once do they go at each other or even speak for that matter.
The constant use of humor could also make or break this film for a viewer. Every three minutes the film tries to get a laugh with either a gag or joke of sorts. And for someone like me who revels in lighthearted humor and themes, I ate it up in truckloads. I had great fun, laughing up a storm in the theatre; perhaps my favor of Loki as a character has something to do with it, especially since the whole film has a bit of a Loki feel. Though for people who would rather keep the more serious tones of “Thor” or “The Avengers,” it may not be their cup of tea.
Overall, if anyone wants a good laugh, “Thor: the Dark World” is worth it, and especially for those following the Marvel Avenger’s plots. Other than that, go in with a cautious and open mind.
