There's a brand new Thor in the Marvel Universe and the next issue of her story goes on sale tomorrow. While the latest series technically is new reader-friendly, it's also a continuation of all the work Jason Aaron has done in the amazing THOR: GOD OF THUNDER. While THOR: GOD OF THUNDER may not be mandatory reading if you want to check out the new Thor run, we do strongly believe it's something that needs to be read and now we're going to tell you why it's worth your time. Grab a mead (if you're old enough and not at work, of course), get comfy and let's talk about why THOR: GOD OF THUNDER is awesome.
Let's get one thing out of the way: You don't need to be a Thor fan to appreciate this series. It's so phenomenal that you could have literally zero experience with the character going in to it and you'd still find yourself totally captivated by the stories. Yes, it's rich in Thor's mythos and will definitely appeal to pre-existing fans, but it's executed in a way that doesn't leave casual fans feeling in the dark. The art obviously plays a big role in what makes this volume special (we'll get to that in a bit), but Aaron's writing is exceptional. The stories are massive in scope yet never feel too over-the-top or ridiculous. The stakes are high, the characters are well-written, and the developments are gripping There's plenty of sequences that we can only describe as being nothing short of epic. Even though this book is full of spectacle, it never loses sight on a very important quality: character.
In less capable hands, this premise for the opening arc would be a total failure. Young, current, and future Thor joining forces to battle a compelling villain who wants to wipe Gods from existence? Sounds like it could be a convoluted mess, right? Luckily for us, Aaron doesn't leave anyone in the dust. Each version of Thor receives a proper spotlight and Gorr is transformed into a seriously memorable foe. The differences in personality are put front and center and the journey is filled with big, astonishing action sequences. The ridiculously good action will linger in your mind for years and years, but the story is every bit as character-driven as it is explosive.
The opening story, The God Butcher, gives Aaron the chance to really make an impact and turned Thor's volume into one of Marvel's standout titles. But what good is a great narrative without equally great and appropriate artwork? Thankfully, Aaron worked with artist Esad Ribic and colorist Ive Svorcina (it's worth noting Dean White colored the first chapter) and these pages live up to the immense and unforgettable scenes Aaron writes. They do an incredible job pulling you into these cinematic moments and so many of the panels will keep you staring at them.
The next story, The Accursed, has the return of Malekith and this is where Aaron begins some major world building. Now, some consider this story the weak point of the volume -- God Butcher is one hell of a tough act to follow -- and while it may not have the consistently stellar artwork or epic stakes of God Butcher, this one tests Thor in a whole new way and sets the stage for his future. Aaron's writing remains a delight as this arc draws a few noticeable parallels to The Lord of the Rings and adds more characters to the story. It's still loaded with great banter, has a steady a sense of wonder, and packs an ending which defies expectations.
The volume's final storyline, The Last Days of Midgard, has the return of Ribic and Svorcina and it's an immensely entertaining arc. As present Thor realizes he can't solve all issues with blunt force and lightning, future Thor faces a problem that can only be toppled by pushing his physical limits. Modern Thor facing the legal system was certainly unexpected and Aaron makes it a hugely amusing conflict for the God of Thunder. It also allows the writer to flesh out S.H.I.E.L.D.'s role in the title. Future Thor, however, is forced to fight Galactus and the battle is simply stunning. Both time periods thrive for completely different reasons and both of them never fail to excite. The follow-up -- which is completely devoid of action -- is the perfect complement to the events, too.
Here at Comic Vine, there's a lot of comic books that we love and are more than happy to praise. But THOR: GOD OF THUNDER? It's a title that delivers on every level. Thanks to a combination of magnificent writing and impressive visuals, this is a book that'll make you smile, drop your jaw, and completely immerse you in its breathtaking universe. Even if you're not a fan of the latest Thor, this is still something that demands to be read. It really is a brilliant adventure that everyone needs to experience. It's a character-driven ride that's full of thrilling action, great dialogue, and gorgeous panels. This isn't just one of Thor's best stories; it's one of Marvel's best new stories.
Have you read THOR: GOD OF THUNDER? If so, do you agree everyone should read it at least once?