In November 2013, Thor: The Dark World will hit cinemas around the world, with Chris Hemsworth returning as the title character. While most publications were out chasing the Australian actor down for an interview, I went after the real thing – Thor himself.
The God of Thunder was pretty intimidating at first, but after a few kegs of beer he opened up about his on-screen portrayal, his personal life, relationship with Jane Foster, family and what the Avengers are really like…
Q. So Thor, what does it feel like to see yourself on the big screen?
A. We don’t actually have (“cinemas?”) in Asgard, so I’m yet to see the film. Jane tells me it is quite good. I got the chance to meet Chris Hemsworth at one of their parties. He asked a lot of questions. He is puny in size, but a very nice man.
Q. Do you know much about the sequel, The Dark World?
I met with the producers last year to discuss the film, and shared a few of my stories with the director, Alan Taylor. He based the film on one of my own adventures… but of course he added a Hollywood twist [LAUGHS].
In reality, I don’t think my life is all that interesting. A lot of these villains, like the Dark Elves, try to cause trouble but they never pose much of a risk. Not when I have Mjolnir!
But it wouldn’t be much of a movie if they depicted reality, so they make the playing field a little bit more even.
Q. So what do you do with Mjolnir when you’re not using it? I’ve noticed you don’t have a holster on your belt?
A. I usually just leave it where I please – it is not like anyone can take it.
Q. What about Joss Whedon’s The Avengers? How close was that to the real thing?
A. Well, we may not have cinemas here but everyone has heard of Joss Whedon. He is not actually from your world, which is why he is smarter than the average human. But that film was personal for me because, like the first Thor film, it included my brother Loki.
Q. And how is your relationship with Loki in real life?
A. He might be quick witted, but lightning is quicker! Although he has settled down a lot these days. He is now working a regular desk job, which suits him better.
Q. Back to The Avengers… Who is your favourite?
I used to think Cap was a bit of a boy scout but he is a good guy. Stark and I are close. We like to sit at the top of famous landmarks and get drunk… he fell off the Tower of Pisa last week. Lucky he was wearing his suit!
Q. And your least favourite?
You’re trying to get me in trouble! [LAUGHS] Banner is the most introverted. Every time he gets angry and destroys the city he mopes around and complains for weeks on end. It gets a bit repetitive.
Q. It’s common knowledge that you love a drink. What’s your beverage of choice?
Because of the name, Jane likes me to drink Fosters. [LAUGHS]
Q. How is Jane?
A. She is good. She has a lot of spare time these days. Before she met me, she spent most of her time investigating space phenomenon that had never been explained, but I’ve explained most of them to her now so she doesn’t really have a hobby.
Q. And just because this interview is for a music publication I’d better ask, what some of your favourite songs?
A. If I’m doing karaoke I like to sing Thunderstuck by AC/DC, Hammer Time by MC Hammer or Thunder Road by Bruce Springsteen.
Writer’s note: I’m not sure if he was joking about that last question.