'Thor: The Dark World

Marvel’s newest sequel, “Thor: The Dark World,” is not a superhero movie.

Rather, the box office smash more closely resembles a witty character drama. Like any good Marvel flick, the movie feeds off the unending conflict between good and evil.

However, new director Alan Taylor (HBO’s “Game of Thrones”) adds a fantastic new layer, further exploring the conflict between characters.

The movie picks up where 2012’s “The Avengers” left off, finding Thor, portrayed by the effortlessly charming Chris Hemsworth, attempting to bring peace to the nine realms.

This sequel creates a storyline far superior to its predecessor, seamlessly weaving together the many subplots into an exciting fast-paced flick.

The major conflict arises when a new group of villains, ancient elves from a time of darkness, awaken for a natural phenomenon known as the convergence.

As the nine realms align, science and magic work together to create strange happenings throughout the universe that conveniently manage to once again bring together the worlds of Thor and his lover, Jane Foster (Natalie Portman).

Though the romance provides a nice break from the heavy supernatural conflict, the chemistry between the lovers is nothing in comparison to the chemistry between Thor and his wonderfully sadistic brother.

Tom Hiddleston returns in his scene-stealing role as the unhinged sociopath Loki.

A breakout in the recent Marvel flicks, Loki is becoming one of the most interesting villains in the comic book world.

Hiddleston brings a remarkable duality to Loki, who splits time in this movie between sidekick and villain.

Perhaps it’s so difficult to pinpoint his allegiance because he’s so horribly likeable. Though undeniably evil, Loki remains one of the most relatable characters in the story.

The film is hurt by its forgettable gratuitous action sequences, and endless computer-generated explosions pale in comparison to the characters’ chemistry and witty banter.

Thoroughly entertaining and exciting, “Thor: The Dark World” does not disappoint.

Complete with a surprise cameo and two ending teasers after the credits, the film serves as a perfect puzzle piece in what’s becoming one big series of Marvel flicks.

So this leaves one question: when’s the next “Avengers”?