5 Ways ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

When ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ hit theaters in 2017, it shook up the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a bold, colorful shift from its darker predecessors. Directed by Taika Waititi, the film brought humor, heart, and a cosmic adventure that redefined Thor as a character and set a new tone for the franchise.

Years later, I’ve rewatched it and noticed how some elements still shine brightly, while others haven’t held up as well. Here are five ways ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ feels dated and five ways it remains a standout, alternating between what’s faded and what’s timeless.

Aged Poorly: Thor’s Casual Hammer Loss

Thor’s flippant line about losing Mjolnir early in the film feels off when you consider how deeply its destruction impacts him later. The casual delivery doesn’t match the emotional weight shown in ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’, where his bond with the hammer carries heavy significance.

This disconnect makes the moment feel like a misstep, especially since the film leans into Thor’s growth as a hero who doesn’t need his weapon. A more serious tone for this loss could’ve set up his arc better.

Aged Masterfully: Taika Waititi’s Bold Direction

Taika Waititi’s vision transformed Thor from a stoic god into a witty, relatable hero. His blend of humor and heart, paired with vibrant visuals inspired by comic artist Jack Kirby, gave the film a distinct identity that still feels fresh.

The director’s playful touch, like Thor’s banter with Hulk or the quirky Grandmaster, keeps the movie lively and rewatchable, setting a template for later MCU films to balance levity with stakes.

Aged Poorly: Underused Supporting Characters

Characters like Heimdall, Valkyrie, and the Warriors Three get limited screen time, leaving their stories feeling thin. While Tessa Thompson’s Valkyrie shines in moments, her backstory is barely explored, and others, like Hogun, are quickly sidelined.

This lack of depth stands out more today, as audiences expect richer roles for supporting characters, like those seen in ‘Black Panther’ or ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’.

Aged Masterfully: Loki’s Captivating Arc

Tom Hiddleston’s Loki steals every scene with his mix of charm, cunning, and vulnerability. His shift from villain to uneasy ally, especially in his scenes with Thor, adds emotional depth that resonates on every rewatch.

Loki’s complex bond with his brother, filled with betrayal and loyalty, laid the groundwork for his own series, ‘Loki’ (2021-2023), and keeps his performance timeless.

Aged Poorly: Dated Visual Effects in Action Scenes

Some action sequences, like the Sakaar gladiator arena or the final Asgard battle, rely on CGI that feels clunky compared to today’s smoother visuals. The effects were impressive at the time, but they can pull you out of the story now.

Modern blockbusters, like ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ (2021), set a higher bar for seamless CGI, making these moments in ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ feel less polished.

Aged Masterfully: Asgard’s Stunning Design

The visuals of Asgard, with its golden spires and cosmic bridges, remain breathtaking. The world feels mythic and alive, holding up against newer films thanks to its detailed craftsmanship.

Every scene in Asgard, from Odin’s throne room to the rainbow bridge, immerses you in Thor’s realm, proving the film’s art direction is still a visual treat.

Aged Poorly: Forced Humor in Serious Moments

The film’s comedic tone sometimes undercuts its heavier scenes, like Hela’s destruction of Asgard or Thor’s struggle with loss. Jokes during these moments feel jarring, diluting the emotional stakes.

Today’s audiences, used to films like ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019) that balance humor and gravity, might find these quips misplaced, wishing for more weight in key scenes.

Aged Masterfully: Chris Hemsworth’s Charismatic Thor

Chris Hemsworth’s Thor is a perfect mix of arrogance, humor, and heart. His performance anchors the film, making Thor’s journey from cocky prince to selfless leader compelling and fun.

Hemsworth’s charm carries through every scene, from his banter with Hulk to his leadership in the climax, ensuring Thor remains a standout hero in the MCU.

Aged Poorly: Hela’s Underdeveloped Villainy

Cate Blanchett’s Hela is menacing, but her motivations as the goddess of death feel vague. Her quest for power lacks the depth of later MCU villains like Thanos, making her less gripping on rewatch.

Without a clear emotional drive, Hela’s role feels like a missed opportunity, especially when compared to more complex antagonists in films like ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016).

Aged Masterfully: Hulk’s Fresh Take

Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk gets a new lease on life as a gladiator with a toddler-like vocabulary, making him more than just a rage machine. His dynamic with Thor, filled with humor and camaraderie, is a highlight.

This reinvention, building on ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ (2015), sets up Hulk’s arc in later films like ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018), keeping his scenes endlessly entertaining.

What’s your take on ‘Thor: Ragnarok’—which moments still hit for you, or what feels off now? Drop your thoughts in the comments!