Thor: Ragnarok is likely to get compared to another Marvel film, Guardians of the Galaxy. Some of this comparison is fair as both films feel unique in their comedic sensibilities but the comparisons really end there. Unlike Guardians, there isn't much more than humor to be found here.
The third and best Thor movie is directed by the very talented Taika Waititi. His previous efforts have shown him to have a comedic sensibility all his own. What We Do in The Shadows and The Hunt of the Wilderpeople both combine wonderfully realized character with quirky jokes. Now dealing with characters already established and working within the confines of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he seems to have lost his voice a bit. However, the main thrill of Thor: Ragnarok is when his voice shines through.
This may be most evident in two side character. Jeff Goldblum plays Grandmaster, ruler of the planet that Thor finds himself prisoner on after a series of unfortunate events. His performance capitalizes on the inherent weirdness of Goldblum's presence and it regularly illicits big laughs. Waititi plays Korg, a fellow prisoner on the planet. Korg is a creation that only Waititi could bring to life, combining sweet-hearted ignorance and might into a truly memorable character. These are the moments when Thor: Ragnarok rocks and becomes something unlike the other Thor movies.
However, this is still a Marvel film and it has some work to do to prepare us for The Avengers: Infinity War. The film tries to balance the sensibilities of both the Guardians and the Avengers in what feels like an attempt to start bridging those worlds.
Thor: Ragnarok does course correct the main issue that has plagued Thor movies in making sure it never takes the Norse-mythology too seriously. We know that it wants to poke fun at Thor early on when it uses Led Zeppelin's Immigrant Song. The moment is on the nose but also fun. Unfortunately it happens again to much lesser effect, as if the screenwriters couldn't find any other song to use.
Ragnarok also doesn't solve Marvel's villain problem. I was excited to see Cate Blanchett as Hela and she does seem to be having fun here but she's never a compelling character. Her goals are too routine to be anything that interests one past seeing an actress of Blanchett's caliber playing a baddie.
I wish that having a truly unique filmmaker enter into the MCU meant more than it does here. Waititi has made two wonderful films that felt entirely his own. This is a watered-down version of his talents, hampered by the needs of a larger story and studio that are beyond his control. Unlike James Gunn, Waititi doesn't find a balance here.
Light-hearted, frequently funny and yet never a film that wraps you up in its story, Thor: Ragnarok will have some big fans but the majority of audiences will probably leave the film shrugging their shoulders. Here's to Marvel not snatching up any more unique, indie filmmakers and diminishing their talents.
3/5
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