Marvel

Taika Waititi’s Disappointingly Shallow Marvel Encore ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ Review

This Marvel Cinematic Universe movie crams too much into too little time, failing to give Natalie Portman’s magnificent comeback or Christian Bale’s frightening baddy enough time to shine.

Thor: Love and Thunder appeared to be a sure thing. After 2017’s enormously enjoyable Thor: Ragnarok, director Taika Waititi returns to the helm, with Chris Hemsworth’s Asgardian Avenger firmly in his lovably hilarious groove and Natalie Portman making her grand return to the live-action Marvel Cinematic Universe after a nine-year sabbatical.

Surprisingly, the 29th MCU film, which was released in theaters on Friday, falls short. Thor’s fourth solo adventure spreads itself too thin by attempting to blend humour with drama and integrating numerous classic comic storylines into a single plot (even down to its two post-credits scenes).

It begins promisingly, with a dramatic introduction introducing Christian Bale’s wicked Gorr the God Butcher. After his daughter is killed in his harsh desert homeworld, his meeting with an indifferent, merciless god inspires him to launch a campaign to exterminate all heavenly beings in the cosmos.

This sequence is atmospheric and patient, allowing Bale’s acting to breathe and feeling his mounting anguish, uncertainty, and wrath. Then the Marvel Studios emblem appears, and the ride begins. Is there emotional resonance? That’s all you’ll get from this film.

Thor was last seen in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, when he opted to join the Guardians of the Galaxy for some spacefaring adventures following Thanos’ defeat. However, the God of Thunder completely outclasses his new comrades, making him appear like a powerful video game character as he crushes their adversaries and renders the Guardians ineffective.

We get a colorful, visually striking action sequence and a generous helping of superhero collateral damage as a result, but Thor and his rocky ally (he’s literally made of rocks) Korg (Waititi) soon decide to go their own way, abandoning the Guardians storyline and largely wasting Chris Pratt, Karen Gillan, and co. before the joke has a chance to develop. This film appears to be eager to move away from the bothersome continuity and return to the Asgardian storyline of Thor’s solo films.

Thor fights his ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Portman) on Earth while Gorr attacks Thor’s other Asgardians. She’s wielding his ancient hammer Mjolnir, having been declared worthy at her darkest hour and obtaining similar powers to him.

Given Jane’s very relevant human health issues, this storyline should be the emotional center of Love and Thunder. The film just does not allow enough time for the task she faces to sink in, as if it is terrified of becoming too real and is too quick to whisk us away on the next adventure (some dramatic moments are also undermined by its two post-credits scenes).

The desire for speed extends to the action; Jane, in particular, exploits her new skills in breathtaking ways, but neither the editing nor the cinematography allow us to savor it. It’s unlikely that many scenes from this film will stick with you the way earlier MCU adventures have — nothing compares to Captain America’s elevator brawl, three Spider-Men swinging into battle, or Scarlet Witch’s encounter with the Illuminati.

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The discomfort between Jane and Thor is initially entertaining, thanks to Portman and Hemsworth’s charisma and chemistry, but it doesn’t grow in a particularly interesting manner. A one-note joke about Thor and his new weapon Stormbreaker is more memorable, but even it becomes tiresome after a while.

The hero squad is completed by King Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), who is tired of being the head of the enchanted tourist trap that New Asgard has become (this location includes an excellent deep-cut cameo). Though the film doesn’t go far enough into her boredom, Thompson infuses the character with enough mischief that she’s entertaining to watch. Her dress selections also hint at an intriguing inner existence; her Phantom of the Opera shirt is far more intriguing than any superhero costume.

A calm chat between Jane and Valkyrie is one of the film’s greatest scenes, as it is a rare occasion of the film slowing down and allowing its performers and writers to connect emotionally. Aside from Hemsworth’s compelling screen presence and great comic timing, one has to question if this trip would have been better with or without Thor.

Gorr’s threat is substantially reduced after his stunning introduction. As Thor leads a trail of supernatural death across the world, The God Butcher’s comics counterpart (introduced in Jason Aaron’s beloved 2012 Thor: God of Thunder run) feels like a huge threat.

Gorr’s villainy is mostly reduced to stealing Asgardian infants as part of a larger plot in Love and Thunder. He doesn’t feel like a direct threat to the heroes, reminding me of Gorr the God Botherer.

Regardless, Bale’s performance and artistic choices give the character lots of spooky spectral boogeyman vibes (supposedly inspired by Aphex Twin’s extremely unnerving Come to Daddy music video). A midway showdown with the heroes is one of the most aesthetically striking sequences in the MCU, with clever use of shadow and color.

This film doesn’t have nearly as many cameos as its immediate MCU predecessor, Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, but it does feature a scene-stealing Russell Crowe as a pompous Zeus. Unfortunately, his involvement is essentially limited to a single flashy set piece that quickly fades into obscurity as the main plot moves on.

Love and Thunder falls short of the wonderful stories that inspired it. It neither embraces its director’s approach nor utilizes the dramatic potential of its performers, coming out as a shallow, disappointing mishmash. It’s still a fun, ridiculous MCU canon entry, but it’s hardly the traditional Thor journey its hunky hero appears to be on.

Marvel

Main Marvel Characters Who Use Magic as Their Main Power Source

In the Marvel Universe, there are a number of characters who utilize magic as their primary power source. From sorcerers and witches to gods and demons, these characters possess an array of magical abilities that make them some of the most powerful and fascinating beings in the Marvel Universe. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the main Marvel characters who use magic as their main power source.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Stephen Strange, also known as the Sorcerer Supreme, is perhaps the most well-known and powerful magic user in the Marvel Universe. After suffering a severe injury to his hands that ended his career as a surgeon, Strange traveled to the Himalayas to seek out the Ancient One, a powerful sorcerer who taught him the ways of magic. Strange possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to cast spells, create magical shields, manipulate time and space, and even travel to other dimensions.

Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch)

Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, is a mutant with the ability to manipulate reality and cast spells. Her powers stem from a combination of her mutant abilities and her connection to the mystical energies of the universe. Scarlet Witch’s powers include reality warping, energy projection, and the ability to manipulate probability. She is also able to cast spells that can alter the physical world around her.

Loki

Loki, the God of Mischief, is a powerful magic user with a long and complicated history in the Marvel Universe. As a member of the Asgardian race, Loki possesses an array of magical abilities, including shape-shifting, illusion casting, and the ability to manipulate energy. He is also a master of manipulation and trickery, often using his wit and charm to get what he wants.

Brother Voodoo

Jericho Drumm, also known as Brother Voodoo, is a Haitian houngan (voodoo priest) who possesses an array of mystical powers. He is able to communicate with spirits and calls upon the powers of the Loa (spirits of Haitian Voodoo) to cast spells and perform feats of magic. Brother Voodoo is also a skilled fighter, often using his martial arts skills in conjunction with his magic to defeat his enemies.

Dormammu

Dormammu is a powerful interdimensional entity that rules over the Dark Dimension. He possesses vast magical powers, including the ability to manipulate reality and create illusions. Dormammu is also able to possess other beings and control them, and he has a vast army of demons at his disposal. He is a formidable foe to any hero who dares to cross his path.

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Magik

Illyana Rasputin, also known as Magik, is a mutant with the ability to teleport through time and space. She is also a sorceress with the ability to cast spells and manipulate magical energies. Magik’s powers stem from her connection to the mystical realm of Limbo, which she rules over as its sorceress supreme. She is also skilled in combat, often using her sword and martial arts skills to defeat her enemies.

Baron Mordo

Karl Mordo, also known as Baron Mordo, is a powerful sorcerer and long-time enemy of Doctor Strange. Like Strange, Mordo was trained by the Ancient One in the ways of magic, but he chose to use his powers for evil. Mordo possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to manipulate energy and create illusions. He is also skilled in hand-to-hand combat and is a formidable adversary.

Hela

Hela’s black power magic is derived from her connection to the realm of Hel, the Norse underworld. It grants her immense power, allowing her to control the dead, summon spirits, and manipulate reality itself. Her powers are fueled by death and destruction, making her one of the most dangerous villains in the Marvel Universe.

In conclusion, Marvel comics and the MCU are filled with characters who use magic as their primary power source. From Doctor Strange, Wanda Maximoff, and Loki to lesser-known characters like Brother Voodoo and Magik, these characters bring a unique and fascinating element to the Marvel Universe. Magic allows for a variety of storytelling possibilities, from alternate dimensions to time travel to even bringing characters back from the dead. The use of magic also adds a sense of mystery and wonder to the Marvel Universe, with its own set of rules and limitations. As the MCU continues to expand and evolve, we can expect to see even more magical characters and stories in the future.

Marvel

10 Hilarious Marvel Characters

If you’re a fan of Marvel comics, then you know that the universe is not just about superheroes and their epic battles against villains. It’s also about the humor that is woven into the storylines, characters, and dialogue. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has given us some incredibly hilarious characters over the years. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the funniest Marvel characters that will have you laughing out loud. These characters may not be the most powerful or the most popular, but they will definitely leave a lasting impression with their humor and comedic timing. So, if you’re ready for some comic relief, read on to discover the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe.

Marvel Comics has given us some of the most iconic superheroes and villains of all time, but it has also introduced us to some incredibly hilarious characters. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has a knack for bringing the funny. Here are 10 hilarious Marvel characters that will make you laugh out loud.

Deadpool

Deadpool, also known as Wade Wilson, is undoubtedly one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. He’s a mercenary with a twisted sense of humor, and he never takes anything too seriously. His wit and sarcasm make him an incredibly entertaining character to read, and his fourth-wall-breaking abilities only add to his comedic value.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man, aka Peter Parker, is known for his quick quips and one-liners. He’s a classic wise-cracking superhero who uses humor to disarm his enemies and lighten the mood. His relatable personality and funny comebacks make him a fan favorite and a staple of Marvel comics.

Rocket Raccoon

Rocket Raccoon may be small, but his personality is anything but. This foul-mouthed, gun-toting raccoon is always ready with a snarky comment and a clever insult. His sarcasm and wit make him one of the most entertaining members of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Groot

Groot, Rocket Raccoon’s sidekick, is a tree-like alien who only knows how to say “I am Groot.” Despite his limited vocabulary, Groot manages to be one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. His innocent charm and child-like personality make him endearing, and his comedic timing is spot on.

Ant-Man

Ant-Man, aka Scott Lang, is a superhero who can shrink down to the size of an ant. His ability to change his size is the source of many hilarious moments, as he uses it to sneak around undetected and pull off elaborate heists. His goofball personality and humorous antics make him one of Marvel’s most lovable heroes.

Loki

Loki, the god of mischief, is known for his mischievous personality and his ability to cause chaos wherever he goes. His cunning wit and manipulative ways make him a fascinating character, but it’s his sense of humor that makes him truly unforgettable. Loki’s dry wit and sarcastic comments always bring a smile to readers’ faces.

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Howard the Duck

Howard the Duck is a sarcastic, cigar-smoking anthropomorphic duck who was transported to Earth from his home planet. His dry wit and cynical outlook on life make him one of Marvel’s most unique and entertaining characters. Despite being a duck, Howard manages to be relatable and hilarious.

Squirrel Girl

Squirrel Girl, aka Doreen Green, is a superhero with the ability to communicate with squirrels. Her cheerful personality and quirky sense of humor make her one of the most endearing and funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. She’s known for taking down some of the most powerful villains in the Marvel Universe, often with the help of her squirrel sidekick, Tippy-Toe.

She-Hulk

She-Hulk, aka Jennifer Walters, is a lawyer and superhero who gains incredible strength and durability after receiving a blood transfusion from her cousin, Bruce Banner (aka the Hulk). She-Hulk is known for breaking the fourth wall and addressing readers directly, which adds to her comedic value. Her sassy personality and irreverent humor make her one of Marvel’s most entertaining heroes.

MODOK

MODOK, aka Mental Organism Designed Only for Killing, is a villain with a giant head and a tiny body. He’s one of the funniest Marvel villains, thanks to his ridiculous appearance and his propensity to monologue. MODOK’s delusions of grandeur and over-the-top villainy make him an absurd and hilarious character. His appearance alone is enough to make readers laugh, but his outlandish schemes and bizarre personality cement his status as one of Marvel’s funniest villains.

In conclusion, Marvel Comics has no shortage of hilarious characters. From the wisecracking heroes to the eccentric villains, these characters add a lighthearted touch to the often intense and action-packed world of superhero comics. Whether it’s Deadpool’s twisted humor or Groot’s innocent charm, these characters are sure to make you laugh out loud. So the next time you’re looking for a good laugh, pick up a Marvel comic and enjoy the comedic genius of these unforgettable characters.

Marvel

Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3: Where, Who, Why, and How

In the world of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, was presumed dead after being thrown off a cliff on the planet Vormir in Avengers: Infinity War. However, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, she is back, albeit as an alternate version of herself. The rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists. This alternate version of Gamora, along with her sister Nebula, was kidnapped by Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, and they followed the Avengers back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. Although Alternate Gamora is alive and well in the main timeline, she declines to join the Guardians as she has never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, is a pivotal character in the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, but she was thought to be dead after the events of Avengers: Infinity War. So, how is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3? Let’s take a look at where she is, who she is, why she is alive, and how she is back.

Who is Gamora in the MCU?

Gamora, the deadliest woman in the galaxy, was introduced in Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014. She was adopted by Thanos after he conquered her planet and killed 50% of its population. Gamora defected from Thanos’ forces and teamed up with the Guardians to keep the Kree general Ronan the Accuser from obtaining the Power Stone. She also encouraged her sister Nebula to defect from Thanos as well.

Where is Gamora in the main MCU timeline?

Technically, Gamora is dead. Thanos abducted her and threw her off a cliff on the planet Vormir, as the sacrifice required to obtain the Soul Stone during the events of Avengers: Infinity War.

Gamora | Marvel Studios’ Legends

Why is Gamora alive again?

Zoe Saldaña is under contract to play Gamora, and her character is an essential part of the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise. But in-universe, the rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists.

How is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3?

During the time heist in Endgame, Nebula and War Machine traveled back in time to intercept the Power Stone before the Guardians, Kree, or Thanos obtained it. However, they created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Thanos became aware that there was a timeline in which he gathered all the Infinity Stones and snapped half of the universe dead, which caused the Avengers to time-travel to collect the Infinity Stones. After kidnapping the main timeline Nebula, Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, Alternate Gamora and Nebula, followed them back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. After Iron Man sacrificed himself to snap away all of “Thanos’ forces,” Alternate Gamora remained in the main MCU timeline but declined to join up with the Guardians, having never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

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In conclusion, while we don’t know what that means for Alternate Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, we know she is in it.

It will be interesting to see how Alternate Gamora’s storyline unfolds in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Given her unique perspective and experiences, there are endless possibilities for where her character arc could go. Perhaps she will struggle to adapt to the new timeline, or maybe she will become a pivotal player in the battle against the villainous Adam Warlock.

Whatever the case may be, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and the opportunity to see how Alternate Gamora fits into the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the film set to be directed by James Gunn and featuring a star-studded cast, it is sure to be a thrilling and emotional ride for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.