Best Thor Movies (Updated: September 2025)

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Between Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) sequels, it’s an ideal moment to revisit some top-notch Thor films. Known as the divine Avenger, he boasts the highest number of solo movies among the team, with a total of four up to now. He doesn’t just shine in ensemble pieces; he dominates screen time, making him a strong contender for the most on-screen heroic moments in the MCU so far. Lucky for us, this abundance means there’s more to appreciate – as you will discover from our recommended list below.

Best Thor Movies as of 2025

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Asgard and its divine inhabitants, including Thor, have played significant roles. Given this, it’s not surprising that Thor is one of the most frequently featured superheroes in the franchise to date. Consequently, all the main Thor films are part of our list of top Thor movies. Additionally, we’ve included the two Avengers films where he had a more prominent role. If you’re eager to watch Thor showcase his godly powers, feel free to start with the following titles for an enjoyable experience.

Thor

Under the guidance of director Kenneth Branagh, who transitioned from Shakespearean acting to superhero directing, the initial Thor film introduces the legendary lore and enchantment of Asgard into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The movie revolves around the story of the arrogant yet strikingly handsome deity of thunder, skillfully played by Chris Hemsworth, who has much to learn about humility and the consequences of his actions. After rekindling a conflict, Thor’s father, Odin (bringing grace to the role by Anthony Hopkins), banishes him to Earth so he can acquire essential lessons before ascending to the throne of Asgard.

Upon arriving in New Mexico, Thor is accidentally struck by a vehicle driven by his future romantic interest and scientist Jane Foster (portrayed by Natalie Portman). Following this, his classic comic relief friend (Kat Dennings) administers an electric shock to him. Now deprived of both his powers and Mjolnir, Thor regains consciousness in a hospital. In a humorous sequence of events, he begins throwing the hospital staff around before being subdued with sedatives, each action delivered with impeccable comic timing.

In this film, there’s an enormous amount of fun to be had as we witness the clumsy antics of a Norse god, devoid of his powers, stumbling about comically. The movie is filled with instances where he arrogantly scolds puny humans, only to be defeated by one moments later. For fans of Thor comics, this narrative seems to pay homage to Thor Vol. 3 #1. However, it’s his act of self-sacrifice, a recurring motif in the Thor saga, that ultimately restores his powers.

A notable character in Loki, known as the Trickster God, is attempting to seize the throne of Asgard. This captivating role is skillfully portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, who secured his breakthrough performance due to a past association with Branagh from theater. The film garnered approximately $449 million globally.

Thor: The Dark World

Under Alan Taylor’s direction, “Thor: The Dark World” serves as the 2013 follow-up to the initial film, taking place two years after its conclusion. In this installment, our antagonist is a Dark Elf named Malekith, who previously attempted to engulf the universe in darkness with an extremely potent artifact known as the Aether. However, Odin’s ancestor had thwarted him in the past; nevertheless, a chain of incidents provides Malekith another opportunity for retaliation. Despite Thor and Loki parting ways on a contentious note at the finale of the first movie, unforeseen circumstances compel them to work together to shield the Nine Realms from impending destruction.

The movie raked in an impressive $644.8 million globally, making it a box office hit. Yet, many fans view it as the least favored Thor film because its plotline was somewhat underwhelming and the character development of Jane Foster left much to be desired. However, the ongoing dynamic between Loki and Thor keeps audiences engaged. Regardless of its perceived dullness, this movie played a significant part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by introducing the Aether as one of the Infinity Stones, paving the way for Infinity War and Endgame.

Thor: Ragnarok

Among all Thor films, this one could be considered the standout, primarily because it introduces Jeff Goldblum to the cast. Moreover, Cate Blanchett delivers an unforgettable portrayal as Hela, the goddess of death, causing havoc in the realm. Unfortunately for Thor (but luckily for viewers due to the film’s humorous narrative and Taika Waititi’s dynamic direction), he ends up on the other side of the universe as a gladiator. There, he must square off against the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), a fellow Avenger and former comrade.

Thor needs to return to prevent Ragnarok and the ruin of Asgard. He encounters obstacles during this journey, but ultimately demonstrates his full might. Throughout this, we discover why he’s known as the God of Thunder. It’s quite enjoyable to witness. With a splash of color, energy, and a touch of rock music, Ragnarok is highly praised among Thor films. It grossed an astonishing $855 million globally.

Thor: Love and Thunder

Following the triumph of Ragnarok, Waititi once again takes the director’s chair for Love and Thunder. The story unfolds after the Avengers’ clash with Thanos in Infinity War and Endgame, finding Thor joining forces with Korg, Valkyrie, and his former lover Jane Foster, who now possesses the hammer Mjolnir as the Mighty Thor (a bit confusing in a synopsis; you should really watch the movie). Together, they must confront the God Butcher, Gorr (portrayed by Christian Bale), who aims to annihilate all deities. Similar to Ragnarok, this film is filled with humor, and we witness various gods of mythology in action, as well as an electrifying battle between Thor and Zeus (an unexpectedly humorous Russell Crowe). Two thunder gods from contrasting mythologies? Quite intriguing. It could very well be the most anticipated Thor film to date.

The Avengers: Age of Ultron

In this retelling, the legendary team known as The Avengers reunite following Tony Stark and Bruce Banner’s development of an artificial intelligence meant to safeguard humanity. However, the AI gains consciousness and perceives humans as a threat. As chaos ensues, the Avengers are left with no choice but to intervene and save the day. Two fresh faces, Pietro and Wanda Maximoff, also make their debut in this film which boasts a large cast of characters.

While the storyline is packed with various plotlines, Thor embarks on an extensive quest after receiving a vision indicating the impending doom of the universe due to the Infinity Stones. His journey leads us into the cosmic conflict that unfolds in the upcoming movie, Infinity War. The narrative commences with the signature humor and thrilling action sequences we’ve come to appreciate, only to amplify both aspects further.

Although it was the least successful financially among the Avengers films (earning $1.4 billion globally, which isn’t terrible), it can be argued that it wasn’t a complete failure. It’s important to note that none of the Avengers movies are truly bad, making any ranking from worst to best more subjective than objective. However, Age of Ultron stands out as one of the top Thor films for a key reason: his side quest plays a crucial role not only in this film but also in setting up Ragnarok, Infinity War, and Endgame.

The Avengers: Infinity War

The Marvel films “Infinity War” and its sequel “Endgame” were nothing short of spectacular in terms of action and emotion. Filled with intense battle scenes and heartbreaking losses, they provided both exhilarating entertainment and poignant pain for fans. Throughout these movies, Thor plays a significant role as he struggles to stop the villain Thanos, but ultimately falters due to a moment of indecision that leaves viewers shouting, “Come on, just do it already!” Despite surviving the snap, Thor is left grappling with immense loss and guilt, and his character evolves into a troubled and heavily drinking version in “Endgame,” struggling with weight gain, depression, and a sense of desolation. However, this tormented Thor gets another opportunity to face Thanos again – and what a battle it is!

The Marvel movies “Infinity War” and its sequel “Endgame” were incredibly action-packed and emotional, offering an exciting yet painful experience for fans. Thor is a key character in these films as he tries to defeat the villain Thanos but falters due to hesitation, leading fans to urge him on with cries of “Just do it already!” Despite surviving the snap, Thor is left grappling with loss and guilt, which transforms his character into a troubled, drinking, depressed version in “Endgame,” gaining weight and feeling desolate. However, this tormented Thor gets another chance to fight Thanos again – and what an epic battle it turns out to be!

How we chose the best Thor movies

Since there aren’t many Thor films available, we’ve essentially shown you all of them, excluding his initial portrayal in the 1988 TV movie The Incredible Hulk Returns, which wasn’t exactly a stellar representation of the Norse god. However, whispers about Thor 5 persist, though no official announcements have been made yet. Additionally, there are rumors that Chris Hemsworth is attempting to bring Extraction director Sam Hargrave on board for potential direction changes in the next movie, which could give it a unique feel. We’ll keep our fingers crossed!

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2025-09-13 05:29