THOR

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THOR is a fantasy action film based on the Marvel Comics superhero. Thor is a powerful but arrogant warrior and heir to the throne of Asgard. However, his reckless actions reignite an ancient war with the Frost Giants and he is banished to Earth by Odin, his father. This gives Thor's brother, Loki, an opportunity to usurp the throne. The film was classified '12A' for moderate fantasy violence.

The BBFC's Guidelines at '12A'/'12' state 'Moderate violence is allowed but should not dwell on detail. There should be no emphasis on injuries or blood, but occasional gory moments may be permitted if justified by the context'. The film includes several scenes of moderate violence, including kicks, punches, and a couple of headbutts. However, the violence is generally fantastical in nature and most commonly involves either superheros or non-human characters (eg the Frost Giants). The only fight scene of note that is set in the real world occurs when Thor battles against US government agents as he attempts to recover his hammer. The blows delivered are quite heavy, featuring crunchy sound effects, but there is no discernible blood or injury detail. Sight of impacts is hidden and the action is extremely rapid, with the emphasis firmly on Thor's attempts to retrieve his magical weapon. Earlier in the film, there is a fight scene between the Asgardians and the Frost Giants, during which one of Thor's companions is stabbed through the chest with a long ice spike. The end of the spike, which is covered in blood, emerges from the man's back, after which he is carried off by his friends. However, the man recovers quickly and this brief moment of bloody detail occurs within a clearly fantastical context. The film has a generally light-hearted tone throughout and this helps to diminish the impact of the violence.

THOR also includes scenes of moderate threat. The Frost Giants, their giant ice dogs, and The Destroyer (a giant robot) are potentially scary and intimidating. However, the threatening sequences, which are neither frequent nor sustained, are broken up by other material, including comic interludes. The film also contains some very mild language, including the terms 'dumbass', 'God' and 'hell'.

Parents can find additional information about the content of this film if they visit www.pbbfc.co.uk.