Thor 2: The Dark World

This pains me to write because I had relatively high expectations for another installment in the epic Marvel catalog. Maybe I was not in the mood or something, but this film simply fell flat for me. Perhaps it was just me, but I've read numerous reviews by folks who make statements like, "The best movie of the year!" and "Way better than the first!". My first thought is that those people were stoned. The best part of the film was a 15 second clip featuring Captain America. Yes, the Dark Elves were way cool and quite menacing. but the story was uninspired and left me unfulfilled.

I'm not going to completely blame this on director Alan Taylor, but this is his first attempt at a major action film. And you can tell. Though the film gets decidedly better in the second half, it can't seem to overcome its murky beginning.  Here's a piece of advice: Superhero films DO NOT have to rely SO HEAVILY on CGI.  There's a lot to be said for real character development, dramatic acting, and storytelling.  Too bad Taylor didn't follow my advice.

Other than the perfect Tom Hiddleston as Loki, the rest of the cast ranges between good and lackluster. Hemsworth is obviously great as Thor but he has absolutely no chemistry with Natalie Portman. Stellan Skarsgard provides some hilarious moments and Jaimie Alexander looks good in Asgard attire.

Overall, Thor has never been my favorite Marvel character so it's no surprise that I don't love this franchise. However, I really enjoyed the first film as well as Thor's contribution to The Avengers. The Dark World just didn't quite capture my full attention.

If you're looking for something to take your teenage son to see, this is a good choice. It was entertaining, don't get me wrong. Just don't expect to be awed.   Oh...and I almost forgot!  Make sure to stay for BOTH of the extra scenes!!