Thor: The Dark World

Thor: The Dark World - 2013

Movie Info

Rating: PG-13

Age-appropriateness: moderate sci-fi action, some language and violence

Overview: When the Dark Elves attempt to plunge the universe into darkness, Thor must embark on a perilous and personal journey that will reunite him with doctor Jane Foster.

Themes: superheroes, good vs. evil, gods, Satan/evil, kingship, peace, beauty, family, death/grieving, revenge, trust, integrity

The Quick 3

Ask these quick questions to hit the major themes of the film.

1. Darkness vs. light. What do you think Jesus meant when He said He was the "light of the world"? What is so good about following Jesus? How can you shine the light of Jesus to the people around you?

In this story, evil is represented by darkness. In our life, we sometimes say that "darkness" represents the bad things that happen to us. But we have good news: Jesus calls Himself "the light of the world". John 8:12 says, "Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, 'I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.'"

2. God. In what ways do you put yourself first? In what ways do you want to be like a god?

Loki expresses his desire to be a god. His father, Odin, clarified that, "We are not gods. We are born, we live, we die. Just as humans do." Loki desires a throne and power above everything else. But he is not a god, no matter how much he wants to be. In a way, our sin makes all of us feel like we are most important. Deep down, there is a temptation in all of us to want to be a god.

3. Kingship. Who are some of the great kings, rulers, and leaders of the world that you can think of? Why is God the greatest King that there ever has been and ever will be?

Thor fought hard to protect people and bring order and peace to the Nine Realms. Because he is the son of Odin, it is his birthright to take over the throne and become king of Asgard. While our world will see many leaders and rulers, there is only one true and ultimate King: and that is God. Revelation 19:16 says, "On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords."

After The Movie Discussion Guide

Follow this 5-10 minute discussion guide to drive an in-depth conversation.

1. Check out this article on the Strengths and weaknesses of all of the heroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

2. This movie explains how darkness surrounded the universe before there was light. The true creation story is somewhat similar. In the very beginning of the Bible, we see how God actually created the world: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. Then God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light. And God saw that the light was good." (Genesis 1:1-4a). What questions do you have about how God created the world?

3. In this story, evil is represented by darkness. In our life, we sometimes say that "darkness" represents the bad things that happen to us. But we have good news: Jesus calls Himself "the light of the world". John 8:12 says, "Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, 'I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.'" What do you think this verse means? What is so good about following Jesus?

4. The Asgardians fought to ensure that darkness never overcame the world. As we follow Jesus, we also get to shine His light for all to see. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus says, "You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." How can you shine the light of Jesus to the people around you?

5. Malekith and the Dark Elves did whatever they could to spread evil and darkness throughout the world. Malekith was even willing to sacrifice his own people if it meant he could hurt his enemies. He was motivated by turning the entire universe into eternal darkness. We, too, have an enemy that wishes to extinguish the light of Jesus. Satan will do whatever he can to lie, steal, and destroy the good things in the world. Where have you seen evil and darkness in the world? How can you help others who might be experiencing darkness in their lives?

Here's an article about How to Talk to Your Child About Satan/Evil.

6. Thor fought hard to protect people and bring order and peace to the Nine Realms. Because he is the son of Odin, it is his birthright to take over the throne and become king of Asgard. While our world will see many leaders and rulers, there is only one true and ultimate King: and that is God. Revelation 19:16 says, "On his robe at his thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords." Who are some of the great kings, rulers, and leaders of the world that you can think of? Why is God the greatest King that there ever has been and ever will be?

Minute By Minute Guide

Use this break down of the entire movie in addition to the “After the Movie” discussion guide. Great for repeat viewings.

:03 Loki expresses his desire to be a god. His father, Odin, clarified that, "We are not gods. We are born, we live, we die. Just as humans do." Loki desires a throne and power above everything else. But he is not a god, no matter how much he wants to be. In a way, our sin makes all of us feel like we are most important. Deep down, there is a temptation in all of us to want to be a god. In what ways do you put yourself first? In what ways do you want to be like a god?

:24 Heimdall talks about the beauty of the Convergence of the worlds. He also mentions how Thor is seeking another kind of beauty: Jane Foster. Ecclesiastes 3:11 refers to the beauty of God's creation: "Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end." What do you think are the most beautiful aspects of God's creation? Since you are made in God's image, how beautiful must you be?

:34 The Dark Elves use the darkness to maintain their power. They use hatred, anger, and force to get what they want. Why is that a bad way to get what you want? What is a better way to make an impact on the world around you?

:48 Malekith has Frigga killed. After Frigga refuses to give up the Aether, she gives up her life. Odin, Thor, and Loki all have to grieve the death of their loved one. There is a funeral to honor the life of Frigga, allowing all of Asgard to mourn her loss. Have you ever loss someone that you loved? How did you express your emotions and grieve their passing?

Here's an article on How to Talk To Your Kids About Death/Grieving.

:57 Thor tells Heimdall that his father is blinded by hatred and grief. Odin is so upset by his wife's passing that he cannot think clearly and he's making poor decisions. Has your decision making ever been blinded by hatred or grief? How can you identify when you are in these moments and get help?

1:16 Everyone was worried that Loki would betray Thor. Thor trusts Loki enough to remove his handcuffs. When it appeared that Loki was betraying Thor, he was actually helping him. Has someone ever broken the trust you had in them? How can you determine if someone is worth trusting?

1:37 Thor was willing to put himself in harm's way if it meant he could contribute to the fight against evil. Thor cared about the mission so much that he was up for sacrificing himself to allow others to live. Jesus, in a similar way, gave up His life so that we might be able to be close to God again. Because of our sin, we've been separated from God and there's nothing we can do to make things right. But Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to pay our consequence for us. How much must Jesus love you, if He was willing to give up His very life?

1:40 Thor admits, "I'd rather be a good man than a great king." He chooses to give up the throne so that he can maintain his integrity. Integrity is doing the right thing, even when it’s hard. Odin tells Thor how much he is proud of him. Do you consider yourself someone of integrity? When do you find it most difficult to maintain your integrity?