“Thor: Ragnarok” is one of Marvel Studios’ finest and funniest.

Three films into the Thor franchise, Marvel Studios continues to amaze yet again with this second sequel that is both a fun adventure and funny romp. Director  Taika Waititi and screenwriters Eric Pearson, Craig Kyle and Christopher Yost deliver a constantly surprising and energetic movie full of hilarious twists, vivid new characters, and meaningful conflict. Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Tom Hiddleston, Jeff Goldblum, and the whole cast have a ball onscreen and that joy transfers to the cineplex audience. Compared to the darker and more troubled DC movie universe, Marvel constantly excels by choosing a sunnier path. And in troubled times like these, who couldn’t use a superhero that not only saves the day but lightens it as well?