Review of Thor: The Dark World (2013) by Jonathan B — 26 Jun 2014

This entry it far more whimsical, sporadic, and funny than the first Thor film. It has shown marked change in tone from Branagh's meticulously balanced direction, and whirls almost out of control both in its narrative and visual conception. Although providing an epic scope and a satisfying visual bang, much of the majesty of Asgard is lost, and some of the supporting characters lose their individuality.

Yet the writers were smart enough to play to their strengths with some of the more interesting characters, and develop them more fully into the characters we loved watching before. I'm thinking mainly of Darcy (who is less annoying and far funnier in this outing) and Loki. Thanks in large part to Tom Hiddleston's consistently outstanding performance, Loki not only held out as a villain against the entire Avenger's team of protagonists, but endures as the most interesting and watchable character in this film (and hopefully more to come).

The story its self seems hazardously reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings (an ancient evil that was temporarily vanquished now seeks to be united with its secret power which is carried by the frailest of mortal characters [and threatens to overtake her with its evil], meanwhile the good guys must find a way to destroy it). Most of the early action sequences look a lot like Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas taking on a bunch or orcs as well. That problem lessens, however, as the film progresses more into its sci-fi side, and moves away from medieval fantasy.

Although not as enticing as its predecessor, Thor: The Dark World provides enough clever tricks and punch lines to satisfy most returning viewers. It falters from time to time, but is continually reignited by its familiar, but still surprising characters.