From the look of the official Japanese theatrical poster for Thor: Ragnarok, fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe overseas are in for some big battles ahead. Directed by the critically acclaimed New Zealand native Taika Waititi -- who wowed audiences around the world last year with the release of Hunt for the Wilderpeople -- the latest Phase 3 feature from Marvel Studios is all set to explore plenty of gladiator-styled action.

With reshoots reportedly underway in Atlanta for a movie that signals the end of the current trilogy about the God of Thunder -- while crucially charting a clear path toward Avengers: Infinity War come May 2018 -- fans of Chris Hemsworth as the titular Norse god have plenty to look forward to. And if Waititi brings any of his characteristic whimsy to bear on the film's script, then Thor: Ragnarok is sure to be unlike any MCU film that has come before -- a fact that can be further attested to by the alternative title for the movie that will accompany it in Japan.

Per an Instagram post published by Marvel's own C.B. Cebulski (see below), it would appear that the official Japanese theatrical poster for Thor: Ragnarok will go by the alternative title of Mighty Thor: Battle Royale. For those in the know, Ragnarok famously refers to a series of future events wherein many of the major Norse gods -- most crucially including Thor, Odin, and Loki -- take part in a great battle in the midst of various instances of cosmic upheaval.

As "Ragnarok" is not a familiar term in Japan, the upcoming movie is being called "Mighty Thor: Battle Royale" here! #marvel #thor A post shared by C.B. Cebulski (@cbcebulski) on

It's fascinating to think that Thor: Ragnarok will be rebranded and marketed to Japanese audiences as Mighty Thor: Battle Royale, while its original title bearing reference to a relatively esoteric mythological event will remain intact domestically. The Thor franchise has thus far never shied away from dabbling lightly in Norse mythos, symbolism, and icons, but with Ragnarok perhaps it's not all that surprising that Japanese audiences are being primarily sold on its action-centered set pieces.

Based on all appearances offered thus far, Thor: Ragnarok -- or Mighty Thor: Battle Royale for potential Japanese moviegoers -- should offer fans of the titular Avenger plenty of action and humor to satiate their appetite while the wait for Avengers: Infinity War continues. Waititi has never disappointed fans in the past -- with his indie vampire satire What We Do in the Shadows from 2014 standing as a prime example of his talents -- and as such here's to hoping for the very best from his battle-filled Thor 3. 

Next: 15 Marvel Gladiators Who NEED To Be In Thor: Ragnarok

Source: C.B. Cebulski

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