Preview: Thor (2011)

Synopsis:

Marvel's superhero Thor receives the big screen treatment as we explore the Norse hero's past and his ostracism.

• Poster: C-; B-; D+

Review:

For the uninitiated, there will be no realization or interest. For those familiar with the comic and the Avengers franchises, this may be quite stimulating.

While the second poster has a lot of the same characteristics of the first, the more rich color selection and stronger detail may appeal more broadly to audiences.

Using shades of a single color creates a feeling of uniformity that doesn't always work well with poster design. That the poster also features a simple and forgettable tagline, and that the image is only a face makes for a rather mirthless design.

• Trailer: C-; B-

Review:

When the excitement begins, I hope someone will let me know. This trailer makes the film look generic and unexciting. Even with Kenneth Branagh behind the camera, I can't see much hope in a trailer like this.

The second trailer is far more friendly to audiences creating a more cohesive picture of what the film's about. Sticking to scenes mostly set in Valhalla, while pretty, doesn't really give the audience something to root for. Putting it squarely in the real world with a few solid action sequences does a better job of conveying the importance of viewer excitement.

Oscar Prospects:

Never underestimate a Marvel superhero flick's power at capturing a handful of tech nominations.

Release Date:

• May 6, 2011

Full Review Synopsis:

I have not seen this film.

-Wesley Lovell (December 13, 2010) Original

-Wesley Lovell (May 1, 2011) New Trailer; New Posters; New Release Date (changed form 5/20/11)