Marvel Studios finished off 2013 with a thunderous bang this past weekend with the premiere of “Thor: The Dark World,” the highly anticipated sequel to the Norse god’s 2011 title film. This installment takes place after Thor (Chris Hemsworth, “The Cabin in the Woods”) has returned to his home, the parallel world of Asgard, following the battle of New York that occurred in “The Avengers.” Peace in Asgard is interrupted by the return of the Dark Elves, who plot to conquer the universe using a malignant force called the Ether. Thor must join forces with his treasonous brother, Loki (Tom Hiddleston, “War Horse”), and the friends he left on Earth to save the nine realms of the universe he has been charged to protect.
Those who are new to the Marvel universe may face a bit of a challenge in understanding the references made throughout the film, especially since it acts as a sequel both to “Thor” and to “The Avengers.” That does not mean that “Thor: The Dark World” cannot act as a standalone film. Enough background information is given throughout the film to allow new viewers to understand the context and direction of the story, which makes for a movie that fans new and old will be able to enjoy.
In true Marvel fashion, “Thor: The Dark World” breaks up moments of intensity with those of humor. Viewers will find themselves laughing as cast members consistently deliver clever one-liners. Loki and Darcy Lewis (Kat Dennings, “2 Broke Girls”) stand out as the sassiest characters, providing delightful sarcasm throughout the duration of the film. These moments of lightness are a brief respite from the fast-paced action of the film and give some depth to a storyline that could easily have become too one-dimensional or action heavy.
That being said, action lovers certainly will not be disappointed. There are plenty of scuffles, standoffs and battle scenes to go around. The audience will also see a great deal of Thor’s skill as a warrior, as he is never without his trusty hammer Mjolnir at his side. It is also refreshing to see women on the battlefield – namely Thor’s soldier Sif, played by Jaimie Alexander (“The Last Stand”) – as there is still a measure of inequality in the representation of men and women in today’s superhero franchises.
In terms of acting, some of the best comes from the more minor characters in the film. Fan favorite Tom Hiddleston is as good as ever as Loki, and will have viewers rooting for him despite his questionable morality. Rene Russo (“Ransom”) is also notable as Thor’s mother Frigga. Russo skillfully portrays her character’s conflict between loving Loki as her son and despising him for the crimes he has committed, which adds credence to the familial subplots running through the story.
Previous fans of “Thor” and the “Avengers” franchise will find more of what they love in “Thor: The Dark World,” while newcomers will be drawn to the film’s wittiness and well-executed action sequences. With classic Marvel humor and enough action to keep audiences engaged, the Thor sequel is definitely worth the trip to the theater.
