Quick Summary
Thor: Ragnarok stands out in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by breaking the typical MCU formula with its unique blend of humor, vibrant visual style, and bold character development. Directed by Taika Waititi, it shifts Thor from a stoic hero to a more self-aware and humorous character, while introducing memorable new allies like Valkyrie and a reimagined Hulk. With a 1980s-inspired aesthetic and a fresh, comic-book-inspired visual style, the film reinvents Thor’s world while still staying true to the core of the MCU. It’s a fun, action-packed adventure that reinvigorates the Thor franchise and sets the stage for the future of the Marvel universe.
Introduction
In the vast landscape of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Thor: Ragnarok stands out as one of the most unique and refreshing films. Directed by Taika Waititi, this 2017 film not only redefined the God of Thunder but also shifted the tone of the entire Thor franchise. Gone were the days of a brooding and serious Thor, replaced by a witty, fun-loving hero ready to take on whatever the universe throws at him—alongside none other than Hulk.
But what truly makes Thor: Ragnarok stand out? Is it the stunning visual style, the hilarious banter between Thor and Hulk, or the radical departure from traditional superhero tropes? In this review, we’ll dive into how Thor: Ragnarok breaks the mold of typical MCU films and explores whether Thor and Hulk are truly challenging the formula of the MCU, or just following the path paved by earlier films.
What is Thor: Ragnarok About?
Thor: Ragnarok brings us back into the chaotic life of Thor (Chris Hemsworth), the God of Thunder. In the film, Thor discovers that his long-lost sister, Hela (Cate Blanchett), has returned to Asgard to claim the throne and bring about Ragnarok—the prophesied destruction of Asgard. With the fate of his homeland hanging in the balance, Thor sets off to stop Hela’s reign of terror.
However, things take an unexpected turn when Thor is captured and sent to the planet Sakaar, where he is forced to fight in a gladiatorial arena. There, he encounters the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), who has been stranded on the planet for two years, living a life of freedom but also internal conflict. Thor and Hulk must team up to escape Sakaar and return to Asgard to stop Hela and prevent the destruction of everything Thor holds dear.
Key Characters and Their Roles
- Thor (Chris Hemsworth): A hero who has grown more humorous and self-aware, but still struggles with his responsibilities. The film marks a significant shift in his character from the stoic god in earlier films to a more relatable and funny figure.
- Hulk/Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo): Hulk’s presence in Thor: Ragnarok is a game-changer. The Hulk has spent two years on Sakaar, where he’s become a gladiator champion. When Thor arrives, Hulk is no longer just a raging beast—he’s an intelligent, albeit immature, version of himself, creating an intriguing dynamic between the two.
- Loki (Tom Hiddleston): Loki’s mischievous nature hasn’t changed. He’s always up to something, and in Ragnarok, he finds himself torn between his old desire for power and the bonds of family. His relationship with Thor is key to the film’s emotional beats, and Hiddleston once again shines as the lovable anti-hero.
- Hela (Cate Blanchett): The main antagonist, Hela, is a formidable and imposing character. As the Goddess of Death, she challenges Thor in ways his previous enemies couldn’t. Her backstory is intricately tied to Asgard’s history, and her character brings an element of danger and depth to the film.
How Does Thor: Ragnarok Stand Out in the MCU?
Thor: Ragnarok was a bold departure from the previous Thor films and even the larger MCU formula. This wasn’t just another superhero film with explosions, chase scenes, and heavy drama. Instead, Taika Waititi brought his signature comedic touch and flair for visual creativity, giving Thor: Ragnarok a distinct identity within the MCU.
Taika Waititi’s Influence on Thor: Ragnarok
Taika Waititi, known for his quirky comedies like What We Do in the Shadows and Hunt for the Wilderpeople, brought an entirely new vibe to Thor: Ragnarok. His direction infused the film with sharp humor, witty dialogue, and a lighter tone that contrasted with the often heavy and intense nature of superhero movies. This comedic style wasn’t just for laughs; it helped deepen the characters and added levity to what would otherwise be an emotionally draining plot.
- Humor: The comedic timing in Ragnarok is impeccable. From Thor’s naive charm to the oddball antics of characters like Korg (voiced by Waititi himself), the humor doesn’t undermine the stakes but rather complements the action.
- Visual Style: Waititi’s influence is also clear in the film’s aesthetic. The bright, neon colors of Sakaar, the comic-book-inspired art direction, and the kaleidoscopic visuals make Thor: Ragnarok visually distinct from other MCU films. It felt like a moving comic book, and that was intentional.
The Change in Thor’s Character
Prior to Ragnarok, Thor had been portrayed as a serious and noble figure. However, Thor: Ragnarok dramatically changed this. Thor still has his heroic moments, but his playful banter with the Hulk, the hilarious sidekick, and even his “new” haircut bring a refreshing energy to the character.
- Character Growth: Thor is no longer just the mighty god; he’s also relatable. In previous films, his strength and nobility often made him feel detached from the audience. But in Ragnarok, the humor and imperfections in Thor’s character allow fans to connect with him on a deeper level.
- Comedy as Character Development: One of the most interesting things about Ragnarok is how it uses humor not just for laughs but also for character development. Thor’s witty comments and physical comedy (like the awkward “Get Help” moment) reveal his vulnerability and add emotional layers to the character.
The Hulk’s Role: From Avenger to Gladiator
One of the most surprising and delightful parts of Thor: Ragnarok is the evolution of Hulk’s character. For the first time, Hulk has a more substantial role, and this film explores the complexity of his existence.
- The Hulk as a Gladiator: Instead of simply being the big, angry hero, Hulk is a captive gladiator on Sakaar. His time there has changed him, and we get a glimpse of the Hulk’s intelligence, showing that there is more to him than just raw strength.
- Thor and Hulk’s Dynamic: The relationship between Thor and Hulk in Ragnarok is one of the film’s highlights. Their battle on Sakaar is epic, but it’s their interactions and growing understanding of each other that provide some of the film’s most memorable moments.
Thor: Ragnarok vs. The MCU Formula: Breaking or Reinforcing the Mold?
As one of the most beloved films in the MCU, Thor: Ragnarok certainly challenged some of the familiar formulas that had been established by previous movies in the franchise. However, does it fully break free from the MCU’s general narrative style, or does it just offer a twist on the tried-and-true formula?
How Thor: Ragnarok Challenges the Typical MCU Narrative
While Thor: Ragnarok still adheres to some key MCU tropes—action-packed battles, hero journeys, and saving the world—it also challenges the conventional structure in several ways.
- The Non-Traditional Villain: Hela is not the typical villain who just wants to destroy everything out of sheer malice. She has a personal vendetta against Asgard and seeks to take what she believes is rightfully hers. Her motivations are rooted in Asgard’s dark past, giving her a unique depth compared to many other MCU villains.
- Colorful Visuals and Design: The film’s visual design, especially the neon-lit world of Sakaar, feels different from the darker, more serious tones seen in other MCU films. This change in aesthetic feels like a step away from the often-muted tones of previous Marvel films and adds to the film’s uniqueness.
- The Balance of Humor and Action: Most MCU films balance action with light humor, but Thor: Ragnarok takes it a step further. The humor is not just a backdrop to the action but is woven into the core of the film. This creates a fresh dynamic where the stakes are high, but the characters still don’t take themselves too seriously.
Does Thor: Ragnarok Fully Break Free from the MCU Formula?
While Thor: Ragnarok definitely pushes boundaries, it doesn’t completely discard the familiar structure of the MCU. It still features the hero overcoming personal struggles, uniting with allies, and saving the world.
- Family Dynamics and Heroism: At its heart, Thor: Ragnarok is still a film about family and sacrifice. Thor’s relationship with his father, brother, and the people of Asgard drives much of the story. In this sense, it’s not breaking from the MCU formula but rather putting a fresh spin on it.
- The Same Familiar Beats: Despite all the humor and visual changes, the core of Thor: Ragnarok still follows the typical superhero journey. Thor must rise above personal losses and face an overwhelming threat to save the world, reinforcing themes seen in earlier MCU films.
MCU’s Villain Problem: Does Thor: Ragnarok Improve on This?
One area where Thor: Ragnarok does slightly falter is with its villain. While Hela is an impressive and powerful character, her motivations could have been explored further. She feels more like a symbol of destruction rather than a fully fleshed-out character.
- The Shortcomings of Hela as a Villain: Hela’s backstory is intriguing, and her power is undeniable, but her character development is somewhat limited compared to other MCU villains like Loki or Thanos. While she’s certainly menacing, her lack of depth makes her feel like another antagonist driven by revenge, something that’s become a bit of a trope in the MCU.
The Visual Style of Thor: Ragnarok: A Tribute to Jack Kirby and the 1980s
One of the most striking features of Thor: Ragnarok is its unique visual style, which departs from the typical MCU aesthetic and offers a colorful, bold, and comic-book-inspired design. This film’s visual palette draws heavy inspiration from legendary comic artist Jack Kirby and the 1980s pop culture era, creating a vibrant and surreal world that feels fresh and alive.
The Influence of Jack Kirby
Jack Kirby, known for his work in the Thor comics as well as his contributions to the creation of many iconic Marvel characters, was an essential influence on Thor: Ragnarok. Kirby’s art is known for its bold, cosmic imagery, and his style often featured otherworldly landscapes, surreal colors, and larger-than-life characters. In Ragnarok, we see this influence in several ways:
- Sakaar: The planet where Thor is imprisoned is a visual masterpiece, filled with garish neon colors, towering sculptures, and futuristic architecture. It channels Kirby’s love for strange, imaginative worlds and his penchant for grand, expansive settings. Sakaar’s chaotic, dystopian design feels like it jumped straight from Kirby’s illustrations.
- The Design of Hela: Hela’s appearance, with her elaborate headdress and dark, foreboding presence, is an homage to Kirby’s otherworldly villains. The dramatic costume design and her towering, god-like demeanor reflect Kirby’s knack for creating imposing, memorable characters.
The 1980s Aesthetic
Taika Waititi and his team didn’t just look to comic books for inspiration; they also drew heavily from 1980s pop culture, particularly in terms of color, style, and energy. The bold use of neon colors, retro-futuristic design, and synth-heavy soundtrack evoke a feeling of the 80s, particularly the visuals of classic sci-fi and action films.
- The Cosmic Color Palette: The neon greens, pinks, and purples that dominate Sakaar and other settings in the film are a direct nod to the over-the-top visuals of 80s science fiction, as seen in films like Tron and Flash Gordon. These colors make Thor: Ragnarok feel like a hyper-stylized comic book, further immersing viewers in a surreal, larger-than-life world.
- The Soundtrack: The film’s soundtrack, featuring artists like Led Zeppelin, is infused with a retro 80s vibe, using upbeat rock and electronic sounds to match the visual aesthetic and energy of the film.
In every frame, the combination of Kirby’s cosmic grandeur and 80s vibrancy creates a truly distinctive look for Thor: Ragnarok, one that sets it apart from the typical, more grounded MCU movies.
Thor’s New Allies: Valkyrie and the Hulk
Thor: Ragnarok introduces two crucial new allies to Thor’s journey: Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) and the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo). These two characters not only enhance the action and stakes of the film but also contribute to its emotional depth and comedic moments.
Valkyrie: The Fierce and Independent Warrior
Valkyrie, played by Tessa Thompson, is a skilled warrior who once fought for Asgard but turned away after witnessing the slaughter of her fellow Valkyries at the hands of Hela. By the time Thor meets her, Valkyrie is living a life of drunken debauchery on the planet Sakaar, working as a bounty hunter. Though initially cynical and reluctant to join Thor’s cause, she gradually becomes one of his most valuable allies.
- Character Development: Valkyrie’s journey in the film is one of redemption and self-discovery. She’s not just a sidekick to Thor; she’s a strong and complex character who has been broken by her past but finds new purpose when she unites with Thor. Her struggle to reconcile with her past is compelling, making her one of the standout characters in the film.
- Humor and Chemistry: Valkyrie and Thor share great chemistry, and their back-and-forth banter provides some of the film’s funniest moments. Her dry wit and sarcastic demeanor balance out Thor’s sometimes naïve exuberance, creating a dynamic that feels both fresh and fun.
The Hulk: A New Role, A New Dynamic
The Hulk’s role in Thor: Ragnarok is also significantly expanded. For the first time, we see Hulk as more than just a raging beast. Hulk has spent two years on Sakaar, where he is celebrated as a gladiator and has formed a unique identity of his own, separate from Bruce Banner. When Thor meets him, Hulk is more like an overgrown child with his own personality and desires.
- Hulk’s Intelligence: This film gives us a rare look at an intelligent Hulk, who is still somewhat childlike but capable of communication and reasoning. The idea that Hulk has his own life on Sakaar, complete with a sense of pride and ego, adds a fun twist to the character that was not explored in previous films.
- Thor and Hulk’s Team-Up: The dynamic between Thor and Hulk is a highlight of the film. Their awkward camaraderie, especially during their gladiatorial battles, creates some of the most memorable moments of the film. Their bond grows as they learn to work together, and Thor begins to see Hulk not as just a tool for smashing but as a true ally and friend.
Together, Valkyrie and the Hulk bring new energy to the film and complement Thor’s character in ways that add both humor and heart to the story.
What Did Fans Think of Thor: Ragnarok?
When Thor: Ragnarok hit theaters in 2017, it received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. Many fans were especially enthusiastic about the film’s humor, colorful visuals, and the dynamic between Thor and Hulk. It was hailed as a breath of fresh air in the MCU, offering a break from the darker and more serious tones of previous entries in the franchise.
Positive Reception
- Humor: One of the biggest fan takeaways from the film was its humor. Fans appreciated the light-hearted, comedic tone that made Thor more relatable and fun. The witty dialogue, slapstick moments, and Thor’s hilarious banter with Hulk created a movie that was just as entertaining as it was action-packed.
- Visual Style: Fans were also drawn to the film’s distinctive visual style, which stood out in a sea of more conventional MCU movies. The bold colors, cosmic landscapes, and 80s aesthetic gave Thor: Ragnarok a unique identity that was praised for its creativity and artistry.
- Character Growth: Many fans appreciated the growth of Thor’s character. No longer the stoic god of earlier films, Thor was now a more playful, self-aware hero, which made him more relatable and likable. The addition of Valkyrie and Hulk also helped balance out the film’s emotional beats.
Mixed Criticisms
Despite the praise, Thor: Ragnarok did receive some mixed reviews, particularly regarding the film’s pacing. Some critics felt that the comedy occasionally undercut the emotional stakes, making the film feel more like a light-hearted romp than a serious hero’s journey. Additionally, Hela’s character development was seen as lacking depth by a few fans who wished for a more complex villain.
Overall, Thor: Ragnarok was overwhelmingly well-received, with fans embracing its unique take on the Thor mythos and its shift away from the more traditional superhero film formula.
Key Takeaways: What Makes Thor: Ragnarok Unique?
Thor: Ragnarok is a standout film in the MCU for several reasons. Here are the key takeaways that make it truly unique:
- The Visual Style: The influence of Jack Kirby and the 1980s aesthetic creates a visually stunning and distinctive film that feels like a moving comic book.
- Humor: The film brings comedy to the forefront, redefining Thor as a more relatable, fun, and self-aware character.
- The Hulk’s Role: By giving Hulk more personality and intelligence, the film makes him a more dynamic character and a great foil to Thor.
- Character Growth: Thor undergoes significant development, shedding his brooding image and becoming a more humorous and emotionally complex hero.
- Fresh Take on the MCU Formula: While still following the hero’s journey, Thor: Ragnarok introduces a lighter tone, more dynamic characters, and a visually distinct world that sets it apart from other MCU films.
Conclusion: Thor & Hulk’s Journey Beyond Thor: Ragnarok
Thor: Ragnarok is a pivotal film not only for Thor’s character arc but also for the larger MCU. It marked a shift in how we viewed the God of Thunder—transforming him from a solemn hero into a beloved, quirky, and dynamic figure. With the introduction of new allies like Valkyrie and a more intelligent Hulk, the film opened up new storytelling possibilities for Thor, Hulk, and their relationship going forward.
The journey of Thor and Hulk didn’t stop with Ragnarok. In later films, like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, the dynamic between the two characters continues to evolve. But it all began here, with the bold, humorous, and visually stunning Thor: Ragnarok, a film that will be remembered as a turning point in both the Thor franchise and the MCU as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes Thor: Ragnarok different from other Marvel movies?
Thor: Ragnarok stands out in the MCU for its vibrant, comic-book-inspired visual style, humor, and unique character development. Unlike the darker tones of previous Thor films, Ragnarok embraces a fun, action-packed atmosphere with a retro 1980s vibe. The film also marks a shift in Thor’s character, showcasing his lighter, more self-aware side. The dynamic between Thor, the Hulk, and new characters like Valkyrie adds fresh energy to the story.
2. Who are the new characters introduced in Thor: Ragnarok?
In Thor: Ragnarok, we meet Valkyrie, a former Asgardian warrior played by Tessa Thompson, and Hulk in a new light, with a more independent and intelligent personality. Both characters play key roles in the film, with Valkyrie providing a strong, independent female presence and Hulk offering new layers to his character, no longer just a destructive force.
3. How does Thor: Ragnarok relate to the comic books?
Thor: Ragnarok draws heavy inspiration from the Thor comics, particularly from the work of legendary comic book artist Jack Kirby. The film’s visual style, with its bold colors and cosmic landscapes, mirrors Kirby’s artistic influence. The character of Hela, played by Cate Blanchett, also finds its roots in the comics, though with some cinematic reinterpretation.
4. Is Thor: Ragnarok a standalone movie or does it tie into other MCU films?
While Thor: Ragnarok is an excellent standalone film, it also plays a crucial role in the larger MCU. The events of the movie directly lead into Avengers: Infinity War, with significant consequences for the characters and Asgard. Thor’s journey and the rise of Hela set up important storylines that play out in the next Avengers films.
5. What is the tone of Thor: Ragnarok?
The tone of Thor: Ragnarok is much lighter and more comedic than its predecessors. Directed by Taika Waititi, the film blends humor with action, creating a fun and entertaining atmosphere. While there are moments of emotional depth, especially in Thor’s character development, the overall tone is one of lighthearted adventure, making it one of the most fun entries in the MCU.
6. What are some memorable scenes from Thor: Ragnarok?
Some of the most memorable scenes from Thor: Ragnarok include:
- Thor’s first meeting with Hulk: The hilarious and chaotic gladiatorial battle between Thor and Hulk, where Thor tries to reason with Hulk, is a fan favorite.
- Valkyrie’s entrance: Valkyrie’s dramatic and stylish introduction on Sakaar is a standout moment, highlighting her strength and independence.
- The final battle against Hela: The film’s climax, where Thor and his allies fight to save Asgard, is filled with stunning visuals and emotional stakes.
7. How did Thor: Ragnarok perform at the box office?
Thor: Ragnarok was a commercial success, grossing over $850 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2017. It was praised for revitalizing the Thor franchise and bringing a fresh perspective to the MCU.
8. Will there be a sequel to Thor: Ragnarok?
While there isn’t an official Thor: Ragnarok sequel, the events from the film are continued in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. Additionally, Thor’s character continues to evolve, with a possible future solo film explored in Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), where the impact of Ragnarok continues to shape his journey.
9. What is the significance of the film’s soundtrack?
The soundtrack of Thor: Ragnarok plays an integral role in setting the film’s tone, with a mix of classic rock songs, such as Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song”, and an electronic, synth-heavy score. The music complements the film’s 1980s-inspired aesthetic, adding a dynamic energy to the action scenes and emotional moments.
Author’s Note
Thor: Ragnarok is a film that left an indelible mark on the MCU, not just as a turning point for Thor’s character but also for the overall tone and style of Marvel’s cosmic adventures. Directed by Taika Waititi, this installment redefined what a Thor movie could be — balancing action, humor, and heart in a way that was both fresh and familiar. What stood out to me the most was how the film successfully blended the grandeur of the Asgardian mythos with quirky, offbeat humor, all while introducing new, beloved characters like Valkyrie and reimagining Hulk in a way we’d never seen before.
As I reflect on the significance of Thor: Ragnarok, I can’t help but admire how it pushed boundaries within the MCU, offering something unique without losing the core of what makes these superhero films so enjoyable. Waititi’s creative direction was bold, fun, and unmistakably his own — and the results speak for themselves. If you haven’t seen the film yet, I highly recommend you experience it for yourself. It’s an emotional, hilarious, and visually stunning journey that truly feels like a celebration of everything that’s great about comic-book films.
Thanks for reading, and feel free to share your thoughts or favorite moments from Thor: Ragnarok in the comments below!
Mary Linda
Mary Linda is the lead author at Celebrity To People, where she brings her expertise and passion for celebrity journalism to the forefront. With a distinguished career spanning five years in the writing industry, Mary has contributed to numerous reputable publications before finding her niche in the world of celebrity news and stories.
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