By Kate Rodger
The Thor of Norse mythology and Marvel Comics fame is here and hits the big screen in all his 3D glory and not only is he 3D, he's Australian.
Home and Away star Chris Hemsworth puts months of press-ups to excellent use, buffed up and Thor-like, complete with legendary hammer.
When Sir Anthony Hopkins banishes his firstborn from the realm, and off to little old earth Thor gets a few lessons in humanity, complete with a little loving on the side courtesy of Natalie Portman.
Its that loving where the cracks show in Thor. While Portman is of course all class, there's not enough effort put into her Thor love affair to give it the strength it needs.
There are several strong filial and superhero-like relationships well delivered here, thanks to a solid story and performances, and far exceeding the promise of the premise.
Avengers fans should keep a hawk-eye out and ensure you stay through the closing credits.
Thor was far more entertaining than I'd been expecting. Hemsworth makes for an excellent Norse god, and nobody onscreen takes themselves so seriously that it makes the epic Norse goddy-nature of things seem just too ridiculous. Fun and cool in 3D.
Four stars.
3 News
Thor
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Director: Kenneth Branagh
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Starring:Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Kat Dennings, Clark Gregg, Idris Elba, Tom Hiddleston
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Running Time: 111 mins
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Rating: M - contains violence
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Release Date: April 28, 2011
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Trailer: Watch here
