Thor - The First Summer Blockbuster

Kenneth Branagh

Kenneth Branagh? The actor-director who is responsible for five Shakespeare adaptations? Directing a comic-book movie? No way.

However, he did it the best way. Comic-book adaptations slowly started to form a separate genre in the 00s. Now we have enough to compare and rank them. Ladies and Gentlemen, I can assure you that Thor is among the greatest comic-book adaptations ever.

Thor is Branagh's first superhero and sixth Shakespeare film. The story contains elements from Branagh's debut as director: Henry V (1989). It is impossible not to notice how Branagh improves a simple comic-book adaptation by applying his great knowledge of Shakespearean drama. He uses Shakespearean tone only in scenes set in the kingdom of Asgard. Later in the movie he applies this kind of attitude out of context: Thor loses primacy after he has been exiled to Earth. This becomes a source of humor throughout the film.

Branagh successfully smooths over every pitfalls. He uses irony in the most triumphant moments but cleverly slaloms back to the seriousness of the situation. Just watch the part when Thor tries to pull his hammer out from the rock. A complex scene in terms of emotional shifts.

Chris Hemsworth & Anthony Hopkins

Not only Branagh's genius makes this film outstanding, however, it is he who was able to gather these incredible artists together for the production.
First of all, Bo Welch (production designer) finally is at his best. It has been a long time since he created something unique, but Thor's stunning visuals proved that he is still one of the greatest production designers. He was responsible for The Color Purple, Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, Batman Returns, Men in Black, Wild Wild West. 
Paul Rubell, the excellent editor, also accepted the job. He previously worked on The Insider, Collateral, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.
And the cast: Anthony Hopkins, Rene Russo, Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgård. Actors who need no introduction. Why would they take part in 'such' movie if not for Branagh? 


It is not reasonable to look at it from the view of the director's previous works. It is what it is: a spectacular epic - and here is the brilliant twist - through the eyes of a director who has stylistic sense. The film functions for all types of audiences. And this is something rare today. Mr. Branagh, hats off to you! It is the beginning of a beautiful summer. 


[The official American weekend box office result are not yet available, but Thor already earned $159 million worldwide. The sum is more than its production budget.]