'Thor Ragarok' Review- Hella Enters The MCU

This movie was released in 2017.

Thor Ragnarok is the third installment based on the Prince of Thunder series and the seventeenth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is directed by Taika Waititi who takes the film in a different direction than its predecessors. Kevin Feige returns to produce for Marvel Studios and Disney.

Following the events of Age of Ultron, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) stops the demon Surtur (Clancy Brown) from destroying Asgard but finds out his brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston) has been impersonating their father Odin (Anthony Hopkins). With the help of Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), they find him, but he soon passes, allowing the escape of their sister Hela (Cate Blanchett), who destroys Thor’s hammer. She casts them out to Sakaar and begins to conquer Asgard with the help of Skurge (Karl Urban).

While fighting in gladiatorial battles for the Grandmaster's (Jeff Goldblum) amusement, he encounters Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) and Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), who convince him to return to Asgard and help retake it from Hela.

When I saw this in cinemas, I really enjoyed this film. It was a fun thrilling ride from beginning to end. I was displeased with the teasers that had come out previously, I did find the movie to be a good time. While I was disappointed in some of the changes from the comic book (like Hela being Loki’s sister instead of daughter), it did not bother me too much.

I will say, the new direction from bleak sci-fi action to action comedy was a smart transition. Thor’s franchise really needed to be resuscitated, especially following The Dark World. Kevin Feige allowing Waititi to explore that genre really added to the MCU and finally upgraded Thor’s franchise.

Of course, Hemsworth is as solid as Thor. He brings an unmistakable ease to the character. He is every bit of the Avenger that he should be. Ruffalo portrayed Bruce Banner in his usual manner. While I prefer a certain type of Hulk, I think he is good in this particular version of the monster. Thompson is okay as Valkyrie, though I would have preferred a different actress.

One thing to note, Guardians Of The Galaxy introduced a certain style of humor into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Waititi duplicates in Thor’s story and while I liked it here, I can see how it can get real old very fast. Humor has always been a part of the MCU, but this particular style is not perfect for every entry. I hope that they do not overuse it with every single release that comes out, especially with Thor.

Bottom line, Thor: Ragnarok is an interesting entry into the MCU. It has a lot of heart and humor, not to mention a climactic battle you are not expecting.

FAVORITE QUOTE: We’re kind of both like fire.

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Foul language, Violence

Check out the trailer below:

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, anime, movie, or novel you would like me to review.