By VIVIEN QUATTRONE
Marvel Studios and Paramount Pictures deliver another hit with Thor, the film adaption of the same-named comic. Chris Hemsworth (A Perfect Getaway) aptly plays Thor, a super-strong, arrogant warrior and heir to the throne of Asgard, a celestial kingdom.
After an incident occurs that breaks the long-standing peace with their ancient enemis, the Frost-Giants, Thor leads a rebel group, including his jealous brother Loki (new comer Tom Hiddleston), to retaliate. A fierce battle, that threatens to kill himself and his warriors, ensues until Odin, (Anthony Hopkins of Silence of the Lambs) Thor’s father and the god-king of Asgard, intervenes.
As punishment for plunging Asgard into preparation for war, Odin strips Thor of his power and sends him to Earth as a human. Odin also sends Thor’s hammer, but Thor cannot wield it and return to Asgard until he has proven himself worthy.
On Earth, while trying to retrieve data on wormholes, scientist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman of Black Swan) finds Thor. Hilarity and romance ensues as the ill-equipped Thor adjusts to life on Earth and tries to regain his power. For example, when in need of a horse, Thor goes into a pet store and demands one. He is told they only carry dogs, cats and birds to which he replies “then give me one big enough to ride.” Or when asking for another cup of coffee at a diner he follows Asgardian customs and throws his mug onto the floor roaring for more.
Chris Hemsworth offers a believable performance, assuming a commanding presence on screen suitable for a god-prince. His confidence and power on screen adds an element of reality to the movie. Natalie Portman, on the other-hand, offers a lackluster performance. She takes a back seat and at times becomes an annoying secondary character.
Thor offers moviegoers several well-choreographed scenes, humor, romance and a complex story line. Although some scenes are lengthy and there is a cliffhanger ending, Thor offers an entertaining experience. Four out of five stars.