Thor: The Dark World ~ One Mama’s Review

Overall Disney Mama Rating 

5 out of 5

It’s really no secret, my family is a bit superhero crazy (just take a look at our Halloween costumes this year) so we were beyond thrilled with the opportunity to attend an advanced screening of the latest Marvel superhero movies, Thor: The Dark World.

Taking place two years after Thor, the movie opens with the story of the Dark Elves and their leader Malekith who want to control the Aether, a weapon built out of the dark which would release its power across the nine realms, plunging them into darkness and giving Malekith reign over all.  The elves are in battle the Asgardian Army led by Borr, King of Asgard (Odin’s father and Thor’s grandfather) who ultimately defeat the Dark Elves and bury the Aether where it can never be found (*wink*).  What they don’t know is that Malekith has escaped on a stealth ship with a handful of Dark Elf minions until such time that the aether can be found and he can rule again.

Fast forward to present time and this is where the movie really begins.  Thor and his Asgardians have established peace across the nine realms (Zachary Levi is a refreshing addition to this team as Fandral), Loki is locked in a glass cell in the Asgard castle’s dungeon and, back on Earth, Jane Foster is simultaneously trying to find and forget about Thor.  Through her search, she and her band of “scientists”, Darcy, Erik and Ian the Intern, stumble across a portal which transports Jane to the resting place of the Aether.  Thor and Loki must work together to protect Jane Foster, defeat Malekith and save the world, umm, nine realms.  Some of the most entertaining scenes are those with Darcy, Ian, Erik, and Jane however my favorite scenes are when Thor and Loki team up to take Jane from Asgard to the Dark World.

For fanboys and girls, Thor: The Dark World stays true to its Marvel and Norse mythological roots.  The movie is visually stunning, has some great humor, and is well paced.  There are plenty of Avenger references for the fans and a great set up for future movies.  My only negative?  Not enough Loki!   Tom Hiddleston’s snarky delivery steals the show.  This mom found Thor: The Dark World to be a fun romp that is entertaining… and is appropriate for families with children age 7 and up!

Recommended Age ~ 7+

5 out of 5

Length of Production ~ Coming in at exactly 2 hours, the movie is just long enough to keep your attention without the need for frequent potty breaks.

4 out of 5

Child Friendliness ~ There are some intense battle scenes, particularly in the opening.  While not gory they may be more than young children can handle.  Profanity is limited to 2 uses of the “s-word” and there are no references to sex or drugs.

5 out of 5

Parent Friendliness ~ Lots to keep parents entertained, especially those that are fans of superheroes, Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.  Beautiful visuals, great action and humor that isn’t dumbed down for the audience

5 out of 5

Quality of Production ~ Amazing CGI creates breathtaking worlds and scenes.  A funeral scene is hauntingly beautiful and invokes emotions without a single spoken word.  Surprising cameos are pulled off effortlessly.

4 out of 5

Value ~ The cost of a movie ticket, not to mention popcorn and other concessions make value a tricky measure.  However to get the best value for your money I highly recommend paying extra for the 3D showing to truly appreciate the worlds that were created for this movie.