Despite the storm of success that followed the original, any high expectations for “Thor: The Dark World” quickly fizzled out.

Even though Marvel Entertainment’s characters have accumulated a large fan base, strong acting failed to make up for the shortcomings of its unoriginal fantasy premise. And if you haven’t seen the first one, “The Dark World” can be hard to follow.

In the first film, Thor’s grandfather led troops into the mythical city of Asgard — the major setting in both films — to battle the dark elves, who had control of the Aether, a super weapon that could destroy civilizations. They were defeated before using it, and the weapon was buried far below the ground with the hope that no one would rediscover it — a very predictable end to the first “Thor.”

Back again and ready to battle in “The Dark World,” Thor (Chris Hemsworth) returns to Asgard despite having to leave behind his love interest Jane (Natalie Portman). While trying to search for Thor, Jane stumbles into an alternate universe, is possessed by the Aether and she struggles to get free. Shortly after, the dark elves’ leader Malekith (Christopher Eccleston), predictably makes a return at this point in the film, hoping to steal back the Aether and create a new age of darkness.

“Thor: The Dark World” almost resembles “The Lord of the Rings” at this point. Granted, many of these action fantasy movies are built on similar premises and director Alan Taylor does a good job at facing this challenge head on after replacing previous “Thor” director Kenneth Branagh.

Although the movie hasn’t received reviews as good as its predecessor did, there are some highlights in the sequel the original “Thor” did not have, namely an increase of humor from Kat Dennings’ appearance as Jane’s intern. Funny moments like the ones Dennings pull off can be difficult to add in to this type of film, but she does a good job infusing her wit. Another highlight is a brief cameo from Captain America (Chris Evans).

The actors seem to really embrace their characters. Hemsworth is able to perfect his character’s low-pitched and mystifying voice, something that is now highly associated with Thor as a character. Natalie Portman also delivers a performance that audiences have come to expect from her.

But it’s Tom Hiddleston who does the best at captivating audiences — he really should have made more appearances in the movie. Hiddleston plays Loki, Thor’s malevolent brother, and despite delivering several clever jabs at Thor, the two join forces to fight off Malekith.

Throughout the battle sequences, it is hard to not notice the extraordinary computer graphics making up the land of Asgard. Without that special cinematography, audiences would hardly have taken it seriously.

While the movie has its charming moments and some comic relief, “Thor: The Dark World” is not highly recommended for just anyone. To really enjoy this film, you would need to be a big fan of “Thor,” or at least have a love for fantasy movies.

It is not an edge-of-your-seat nail biter and it does not have enough funny scenes to even remotely be considered a comedy. It really is just an action film, and if that is your cup of tea, then “Thor: The Dark World” is the perfect film for you.

Published on November 20, 2013 at 12:27 am

Contact Brittany: baruss01@syr.edu