Mike Smith
I love me some Taika Waititi! The Oscar-winning filmmaker has a perfect touch when balancing drama and humor. And that touch is on full display in “THOR: Love and Thunder.”
A man (an unrecognizable Bale) wanders in the desert, trying his best to protect his young daughter from the elements. He comes across a beautiful, lush paradise only to realize that the god he has worshipped has no use for him. Realizing he has been forsaken, he declares, “All gods must die!”
“THOR: Love and Thunder” reintroduces the audience to the “THOR” saga via the fine performers in the local theater in New Asgard. We learn of his adventures as well as his heartaches, most notably Doctor Jane Foster (Portman), the one true love of Thor’s life. As word of the “god butcher” spreads, Thor enlists King Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) to help end the slaughter. And, thanks to Thor’s hammer, Mjölnir – I finally know who to pronounce it – Jane joins them. My comic book loving friends are going to hate me but, for lack of a better name, the hammer turns Jane into Lady Thor/She Thor (tho I believe she is just Thor in the comics). The return of Mjölnir makes Thor (original Thor) happy., but it also causes some friction between Thor and his axe, Stormbreaker, one of the great comic touches in a very dramatic film.
As with all of the films in the MCU, the cast here is pitch-perfect. Hemsworth and Portman have great chemistry, making their romance quite believable. Christian Bale is tragic as a man whose faith – and life – has been shattered by the gods. Supporting performances by Thompson, director Waititi and Russell Crowe are just as solid. The visual effects are, of course, top notch, and the soundtrack cranks up the rock and roll!
A powerful and emotional rollercoaster, “THOR: Love and Thunder” is a must see.
