Thor: The Dark World (2013)

Chris Hemsworth's hammer-wielding hero returns for more mythologyinspired mayhem in this comic book adventure sequel.

The shaky peace that has been held in the Nine Realms since Thor (Hemsworth) battled with the Frost Giants is under threat. Across the universe an ancient foe, who the Asgardians thought had perished, has reared its head.

Thanks to a rare space phenomenon, portals between the nine worlds are beginning to appear giving the Dark Elves, led by sinister Malekith (Christopher Eccleston), the chance to cause havoc in their pursuit of an ancient weapon known as the Aether.

The future of the universe is in the hands of the gods; can thunderous Thor bring order to the cosmos?

The Asgardian story strand is more brash and cantankerous than those of Thor's Avenger teammates, which makes for a refreshing antidote to the darkness of modern day comic adventures. Much of the success is owed to Tom Hiddleston's mischievous Loki, who hits the mark again in this third appearance as the godly menace.