I don’t like the word “hype”, but with “Thor: Ragnarok”, at least I can say that the hype is justified. This is easily the best “Thor” movie thus far and one of my favorite Marvel films as well. As someone who enjoyed Thor’s first adventure, I thought “The Dark World” was a massive step back. In short: it was forgettable. Fortunately, and with director Taika Waititi calling the shots, “Ragnarok” emerges as one hell of a ride: it’s a funny, compelling, and hugely entertaining sequel that will satisfy any fan of the series. What I loved about it is that Thor (once again played by a charismatic Chris Hemsworh) is appealingly vulnerable this time around, in more ways than one. I won’t say why or how, but prepare to root for the God of thunder like never before. In terms of plot, there’s a lot going on (think “Guardians of the Galaxy”), but what you need to know is that Thor and Loki’s dad Odin (Anthony Hopkins) is dead and there’s a new enemy (in the form of Cate Blanchett ) threatening to destroy Asgard. Sounds generic on paper, but there’s absolutely nothing generic about the way Waititi handles his material. From a hilarious opening sequence to a pulse-pounding climax (fueled by Led Zeppelin’s mighty “Immigrant Song”)”, “Ragnarok” is a constant pleasure. And it’s the first superhero movie (at least since the first “Guardians”) that made me (and the audience) laugh out loud, repeatedly. As for Thor’s fight with Hulk, let’s just say that you’re in for a treat.

I don’t know what awaits the God of thunder in future outings, but “Ragnarok” is an instant classic and probably the only Thor movie that people will talk about for years to come. I don’t say this very often about a superhero movie, but I loved every minute of it.