Update: Thor and Hulk get their own psychedelic Ragnarok covers too!

A brand new epic Empire cover showcases Thor battling Hela in a bespoke illustration exclusive only for the magazine. The characters played by Chris Hemsworth and Cate Blanchett respectively are set to fully clash against each other in Marvel's Thor: Ragnarok, set to hit theaters in November. Directed by Taika Waititi, the highly-anticipated motion picture will mark the final installment of the God of Thunder's standalone trilogy and will presumably spell the ultimate fate of Asgard as it is set to face arguably its biggest threat in the Goddess of Death.

There is a lot of excitement bubbling around Ragnarok even within the bounds of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While the first two Thor films were met with mixed reception, things look drastically different in the franchise's threequel - from its vibrant visuals and even narrative tone further enticing everyone of what Waititi may have in store for MCU fans. It also helps that the cosmic adventure will significantly feature another Avenger in Hulk/Bruce Banner, opening an opportunity to pepper some Planet Hulk plot points in the film. The return of familiar faces like fan-favorite Loki (Tom Hiddleston) coupled with the introduction of new characters like the Grandmaster, Valkyrie and Skurge make for a great mix of old and new in Hemsworth's fifth reprisal of his superhero role.

The aforementioned cover which has been unveiled online by Empire shows Thor with his long luscious locks, flowing red cape and holding his Mjolnir gearing up for battle as Hela confidently smirks at him.  Marvel's very own artist, Russell Dauterman, who is also the person behind the images of the current Thor comics run, was commissioned to create the stunning piece of artwork which will be exclusive for the outlet's subscribers only. On top of the intricate cover page, the issue will also feature an extensive look on the film's set in Australia, where principal photography took place.

Interestingly, the God of Thunder also sports his iconic comic book helmet - something that we haven't see on the big screen thus far. But thanks to the movie's trailers, we know that Thor will put on a head gear, albeit a slightly different design, reminiscent of his comics aesthetic during his big brawl with the Hulk in Sakaar.

Being the MCU's first main female supervillain, there are some high expectations with Blanchett's Hela. And it seems like the critically acclaimed actress will deliver if the snippets of her in the teasers are any indication as to how menacing and ruthless of an antagonist she will be. In fact, Blanchett even admitted that the thing that ultimately drew her to the gig was the notion of going toe-to-toe with Hemsworth's superhero character.

While we don't know yet how Hela's plan to rule Asgard will pan out in Thor: Ragnarok, we're certain that Thor, Loki, and Hulk will live past the film and move forward to a bigger battle in Avengers: Infinity War. As Earth's Mightiest Heroes assemble once again, this time, with brand new allies to help them defeat Thanos and his children, Thor might once again find himself in the battle arena in front of Hela given the character's strong ties to the mad Titan and the over all Infinity War comic book mythos.

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Source: Empire

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