The Mighty Thor #2

If you loved the Thor movie, and have no clue where to start reading Thor's comics (let's face it, all that history can be a little bit intimidating) then The Mighty Thor is exactly what you have been looking for.

The Good

This series is incredibly easy to understand and is perfect for a new reader or anyone relatively unfamiliar with Thor's rich character history to just pick up and dive in. One thing Matt Fraction is really good at is catering to a new reader. Olivier Coipel does the pencils for this series, which are gorgeous, and if the story itself doesn't suck you into the vast Asgardian universe, then the art surely will. The story opens with Thor and Sif getting ready to train the Brigade of Realms- the warriors responsible for the protection of all nine worlds. During this time, Thor is struggling with a grave injury that has been holding him back. There is a big plot development in this issue with the introduction of a major character who is threatening the safety of Asgard. Without saying much more, the characterization of this particular character is on point.

I actually really like this issue. The art is breathtaking, so that definitely helps hold the readers' interest in the story, but the story is pretty well written. Fraction's pacing is great and it's just an all around fun issue. The threat to Thor and Asgard feels imminent, and that really helps me care about the characters and what could happen to them.

The Bad

I don't really feel like this is an essential story to read if you're reading Fear Itself. In fact, I think this story takes place immediately before the start of the Fear Itself story-line. It's a fun Thor story, and great for new readers, but if you're invested in the character in current continuity you may want to pass on this title.

The Verdict

Like I said, it's a great introductory title for new readers, but certainly not essential to your understanding of current Marvel continuity. Still, it's a decent story with incredible art and is a lot of fun to read.