New on DVD: Superheroes and Space

 DVDs this week include an excellent high-brow indie and a pretty good popular superhero flick.

Thor

Superhero Flick

The Gist: When his crabby father, Odin, throws Thor (the God of Thunder) out of Asgard, Thor lands on Earth. How is a god supposed to adjust to being a human?  And how does a former-god-human stop his traitorous god-brother Loki from taking over Asgard? It’s all part of Marvel Comics long term plan to tell the stories of the Avengers superheroes.

The Ups: Once Thor lands on Earth, the movie is spot-on, with an arrogant god learning to be a humble human. He then turns that lesson into self-sacrifice, as all good superheroes must do.

The Downs: The metaphysical parts set in Asgard are confusing and a bit boring, which is too bad since the Earth portion of the action is so fun.

The Verdict: Watch it. The film is a solid superhero movie and worth an evening’s entertainment.

Be Aware: Rated PG-13, mostly for intense action, the film has no sexual content and very little language.

Another Earth

Science - Philosophy Indie Movie

The Gist: Two lives intersect when a bright young future-scientist kills the family of a musician. She ruins several lives, including her own, by driving while drunk. After her release, she tries to connect with him and atone for her horrible deed. All the while, they are both fascinated by a replica earth that has appeared suddenly in the sky. Read our full review. 

The Ups: Good acting and a trippy, philosophical  concept made this low-budget film the darling of film festivals. It has a very independent movie feel. What it lacks in special effects, it makes up in cosmic musings.

The Downs: Both the girl and the man are so sad for much of the movie that it can be a downer to watch.

The Verdict: If you’re interested in the intersection of philosophy, film, science, and questions of faith, this is a good film to watch. Excellently done.

Be Aware: Rated PG-13, the film is not graphic, but is appropriate only for adults due to its intense subject matter and a sexual storyline.