30 Days of Thanks: Why We’re Thankful for Valkyrie
Brünnhilde, an Asgardian valkyrie who was a part of an elite group of warriors actually called valkyries, is unlike any female warrior/superhero I have had the pleasure of fangirling over. Tessa Thompson’s portrayal had me hooked from the minute she stepped off Warsong, and this is why I am thankful for Valkyrie on this 28th day of our 30 Days of Thanks!
Photo: Marvel Studios
First, it was her introduction to us that had me thinking, “She’s going to be interesting!” I was intrigued by her persona, the way she carried herself (even though she was sloshed at the time).
GIF: Marvel Studios
Often times we are given female warriors that can seem pretentious with an entitled attitude; or overtly feminine catering to the male gaze. Brünnhilde was nothing of the sort, and she is a woman of color. That was a moment of relatability for me because I was seeing a darker skin tone rather than pale milky white. It had me moving to the edge of my seat eager for more.
GIF: Marvel Studios
As we get to know Brünnhilde, we begin to see the many walls built around her, hiding her vulnerability in a way that I for one can say is not make-believe. In a world where women are often made to fit into society’s expectations of femininity, Thompson gives Brünnhilde a real-world vibe that many of us can connect with while watching a movie based on fantasy.
You may be asking, Is that the only reason you connect with her, as a drunken mess?
Photo: Marvel Studios
Nope. The fact that it’s clear to anyone that Brünnhilde is, in fact, queer truly blew my mind. A bisexual character that isn’t feeding into a false narrative that is only to please fanboys?! Consider me hooked! I am so eager to learn more about her character in Thor: Love and Thunder. Plus I cannot deny that I am eager for a bit of a romantic storyline for Valkyrie.
Valkyrie’s self-imposed exile doesn’t stop Thor from seeking her help, hoping he can have one of Asgard’s most fearsome warriors at his side as he battles against Hela. Once Valkyrie decides to release herself of self-hate at having failed her people, she shows up and helps Thor and Loki, and finds a way to redeem herself in her own eyes.
GIF: Marvel Studios
So today readers, on my birthday, I am thankful for the chance to share with you a superhero that gave me the representation I have been searching for in this awesome franchise. I can’t wait to see what’s to come in Love and Thunder, on November 5, 2021!
