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- ‘Thor’ director Kenneth Branagh had a very different idea for a sequel (businessinsider.com)
Kenneth Branagh Reflects on His Time Directing “Thor” and Shares Vision for a Possible Sequel
Kenneth Branagh, the acclaimed director behind the 2011 Marvel film “Thor,” recently opened up about his experience with the franchise and his thoughts on a potential sequel. Known for his strong background in Shakespearean adaptations, Branagh initially saw the story of the God of Thunder as a dramatic tale filled with mythological depth, complex family dynamics, and a hero’s journey toward leadership.
His debut “Thor” film grossed an impressive $449 million worldwide and helped launch Marvel Studios’ dominance in the superhero genre. However, the franchise took a noticeably lighter, more comedic turn under director Taika Waititi, whose 2017 film “Thor: Ragnarok” became the highest-grossing entry with over $855 million globally.
In a recent interview commemorating the 15th anniversary of “Thor,” Branagh praised Waititi’s contributions as “amazing films” but admitted he still harbors ideas for a sequel that would explore the character in a more serious tone. He revealed that Marvel had invited him back to direct a follow-up after his first film, but after three intense years working on the project, he needed a break. The 2013 sequel, “Thor: The Dark World,” was ultimately directed by Alan Taylor.
Branagh shared that if he were to helm another “Thor” movie, it would not lean into the comedic style that the recent films adopted. Instead, he envisioned a story akin to James Mangold’s 2017 “Logan”-a darker, more mature, and emotionally resonant conclusion for the character, one that would serve as a fitting twilight for Thor’s journey.
While the tone of the “Thor” films under Waititi has brought humor and new energy, some recent feedback suggests audiences may be ready for a shift. Following the mixed critical reception and box office performance of 2022’s “Thor: Love and Thunder,” star Chris Hemsworth acknowledged the movie was “too silly.”
Waititi himself expressed interest in taking a fresh approach for any future installments, even joking about a low-budget, fight-free road trip story. However, he later confirmed he would not be involved in a fifth “Thor” movie.
Looking ahead, Hemsworth confirmed that after his appearance in “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty” later this year, Marvel has plans for another Thor film. He noted that Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige believes audiences now expect more dramatic developments for the character.
Branagh, who also stars in the upcoming “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” expressed admiration for Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, and the rest of the cast’s work. He suggested it would be “very beautiful” to see the characters brought to a meaningful close. When asked about the possibility of returning to direct a new Thor film, Branagh acknowledged the Marvel Universe has moved far ahead, and any plans are likely already in motion.
As the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to evolve, fans remain curious whether Branagh’s more dramatic vision for Thor might one day come to the big screen, offering a fresh and poignant chapter in the God of Thunder’s saga.
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- ‘Thor’ director Kenneth Branagh had a very different idea for a sequel (businessinsider.com)