First impressions often are the most lasting whether it be with people, books, films or places. My first impressions of this film were how much fun it was, how witty, sharp and action packed. It had escaped the dreary seriousness of Captain America Civil War, it was not trying to be something it wasn’t. This was totally enjoyable from start to finish and certainly wasn’t taking itself too seriously. Chris Hemsworth’s Thor has always been a well-loved character in the Marvel Universe, not just because he so handsome but because he delivers some of the best lines. However, there was a growing sense that after his last solo movie he was becoming dull and boring, an otherworldly Captain America. Hemsworth apparently wanted to bring back more fun, more laughter and more banter between his character and co-stars. This film delivers all that and more. It has the sense of the ridiculous throughout from his meeting with Dr Strange to the scene during the credits (yes, do wait around to the very end!). This film, like Spiderman Homecoming before it, brings back what Marvel was always about, action, adventure, fun and humour. All is well in the Marvel Universe again, until the next calamity needs to be averted of course!
But…there’s more! Marvel have always tried to give a message too, sometimes it works as in Avengers Assemble when we see that it is teamwork and togetherness that will defeat the powers of darkness, a “better together” message. Sometimes is rather clunky as in Civil War where it poses the question: should power be regulated? Here its about destiny: can we avert destiny, and indeed should we. It also asks another important question is a nation, a world, about the place or the people? Both are answered but I won’t tell you how – go see the movie! This is important because Thor, Loki, Odin, Hela and The Valkyrie are not Marvel inventions, they come from Norse Mythology. Whilst they have been twisted and interpreted for the Marvel Universe they are actually from ancient legends and Marvel know they must, at least, allude to those myths or they will be accused of merely stealing names. Ragnarok itself is the final part of the Norse Mythology, talking of the end of Valhalla, the end of the Gods and the end of the age. It is seen as inevitable, dreadful and something to be feared. It also points to a new age, of new Gods and new beginnings. Marvel are clearly aware of all this and know that they will have to address some, if not all of these issues. So the film has to deal with this, and does in its own way. The fact that it does so and still makes you smile and laugh whilst doing so is an absolute triumph. And to do so in just over 2 hours is, in itself incredible.
So, go on, treat yourself, this is one of the most fun action romps you’ll see in a long time, full of laughs, witticism and non-stop entertainment. The cast seem to have had fun making it and there is real chemistry between them. It has a heart too, and it has a message. See it!