Thor tells the story of the eponymous Thor (played by Chris Hemsworth), who is the Norse God of Thunder and can wield tremendous power. After being banished from Asgard (the realm of the gods where he lives) by his father, Odin (played by Anthony Hopkins), because of his reckless and arrogant behavior, Thor is forced to decide where he will go. Will it be Earth, or will it be someplace else?
Thor ultimately decides to head to the State of New Mexico in the United States, where he meets an astrophysicist named Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) and her team. As Thor adjusts to life on Earth and his life without powers, he must also contend with his mischievous brother, Loki (Tom Hiddleston), who has sinister plans for both Asgard and Earth. Loki wants to take the throne of Asgard for himself and conquer Earth.
The film is told in two realms: Earth and Asgard. While Earth is fairly mundane, Asgard is rich and majestic. The stark contrast between these two worlds underscores Thor being a few out of water in the new world. It also allows Thor to change dramatically as a character. After he is stripped of his power, Thor learns the value of humility and selflessness.
Chris Hemsworth delivers a charismatic performance as Thor; he is both physically imposing and equally cunning. Tom Hiddleston's portrayal of Loki as a complex and conflicted villain adds depth to the film. The sibling rivalry between Thor and Loki is a central theme, and Hiddleston's performance underscores the emotional complexity of their relationship.
The film's visual effects add to the portrayal of Asgard and Thor's battles with evil forces like the Frost Giants. Branagh utilizes computer-generated imagery (CGI) to create the Bifrost Bridge, which is portrayed as being like a rainbow. This imagery of the bridge and other magical elements adds to the film's grandeur. It likewise shows the impact of Norse mythology on the film. Without mythology, the film, and its themes would not pack as big of a cinematic punch.
