The Dark World" (Marvel).

The first installation directed by Kenneth Branagh and Joss Whedon remained slightly timid in its portrayal of the God of Thunder. Much of the audience had yet to be introduced to the character of Thor, so Branagh and a gaggle of writers—at least eight have credits for it—tried to provide as much of the Norse mythology as possible without confusing those unfamiliar with the story. As a result, the conflict of “Thor” is simple and the action only gives a glimpse at Thor’s incredible strength and abilities. 

The sequel, however, squeezes that potential for all its worth and maybe even a bit more with higher stakes, more action, more comedy and deeper mythology. 

Both films include narration early on from Odin (Anthony Hopkins) describing an intense war between the Asgardians and a sinister foe—the Frost Giants in the first and Dark Elves in the second. While the Frost Giants caused a war and tried to start an Ice Age, the Dark Elves strive to eliminate all light and matter from the universe. 

READ MORE: Film Review: 'Thor: The Dark World'

Now, the precedent has been set that “The Dark World” is going by the mantra “bigger is better” and the fun begins. 

Unlike some superhero films that limit the hero’s fight scenes to a few small attacks and the climax, Alan Taylor’s sequel shoves its protagonist in the middle of constant battles. Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and his faithful allies, including Sif (Jaimie Alexander), Volstagg (Ray Stevenson) and Fandral (Zachary Levi here, but Josh Dallas in “Thor”), move through various realms to squash rebellions or minor conflicts. There are giant rock monsters, piglike creatures and many foes that resemble the Uruk-hai from “The Lord of the Rings.” Clearly, “The Dark World” followed “The Avengers” in forcing action at every opportunity.

The most significant upgrade from Branagh’s film is the comedic flare. Most will remember the cup-smashing scene from the first “Thor,” but “The Dark World,” despite its name, goes barely five minutes without some sort of sight gag or sly insult. When Thor releases Loki (Tom Hiddleston), the insults and cheeky remarks fly at a ridiculous pace. Taylor and his team of writers—again, eight are given credit—capitalize on the fame and adoration given to Loki in the past few years. Thankfully, the wealth is shared as Kat Dennings, Stellan Skarsgård and even Hemsworth get their moments. 

Not every magnification worked in their favor, however. Taylor and his writers add too much to the story. The plot is convoluted to the point where following each detail is a fruitless endeavor. Additionally, the script is rife with continuity errors. Moments of “wait, what?” give you pause, but a joke hides these slipups each time. 

READ MORE: Review: Chris Hemsworth In 'Thor: The Dark World'

“Thor: The Dark World” takes the successes of “Thor” and adds a gallon of fuel to the fire. Thor and Loki continue oozing charisma, while the film expands the universe to the ninth degree. As long as the plotholes and small errors are ignored, which is easier than it sounds, “Thor: The Dark World” amplifies the energy and entertainment value of its predecessor, making it entirely worthwhile. 

Read more by Michael at MHMovieReviews.com.

Contact Staff Reporter Michael Huard here.