Thor: The Dark World: Movie Review

Sequels don't often outdo their predecessors. That's not entirely the case with Thor: The Dark World. Marvel's new action-packed, soon-to-be blockbuster has more going for it than Thor, the franchise's 2011 opener.

Aussie actor Chris Hemsworth picks up the hammer once more as Thor, one of the Avengers (along with Captain America, Iron Man and Hulk) who saved New York from an alien invasion led by his adopted brother, Loki. In Thor: The Dark World, a different villain emerges, threatening to bring utter darkness upon earth and the universe.

This PG-13 rated movie is decidedly darker than the first one (hence its title). Caution is advised.

THE MOVIE IN A MINUTE

A dark evil stirs as Dr. Jane Foster stumbles onto the Aether. The powerful force resurrects Malekith, an age-old enemy of Thor and the people of Asgard. The supervillain's plan to bring lasting darkness on all of the realms pushes Thor to turn to an enemy for help, his imprisoned brother Loki.

THE GOOD AND BAD IN THOR: THE DARK WORLD

In Thor: The Dark World, we go deeper into the comic book hero's story. Moviegoers see a more personal side to Thor and his complicated relationships. And at times, it's easy to forget he's the star of the show (not that that's a bad thing). Many of Thor's supporting characters play a prominent role, especially his devious brother Loki (played again by Tom Hiddleston). There's a charisma and intriguing side to Loki's character, and it's sometimes hard to not root for him to change to the good side.

Thor: The Dark World is a proper popcorn flick full of action, suspense, humor and drama. However, it does have its 'really?!?' moments as well, one in particular shamelessly focusing on Hemsworth's abs.

One important question posed, rather literally, in Thor: The Dark World, encompasses the thrust of the film: "What would you sacrifice for what you believe?" It also touches on the oppressive nature of darkness. But, as we know, light always overtakes darkness, no matter how blindingly thick its veil.

There's also quite a bit of sibling rivalry as we pick up where Marvel's The Avengers left off, with Loki being punished for his intergalactic war crimes. Thor: The Dark World amplifies their troubled relationship. Talk about a dysfunctional family.

Rated PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi action and violence and some suggestive content, Thor: The Dark World isn't kid-friendly. Expect to hear some foul language as well.

IN THE END

Thor: The Dark World is big and loud, and fast-paced, for the most part. Based on Norse mythology, the film, like most comic book movies, delves into the 'supernatural'. Again, caution is advised.