Chris Hemsworth, born on August 11, 1983, in Melbourne, Australia, has become one of Hollywood's most recognisable faces, best known for his portrayal of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Hemsworth's journey to stardom began with his role as Kim Hyde on the popular Australian soap opera Home and Away, where his talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of international audiences. Some of his early roles in Hollywood include Star Trek (2009) and A Perfect Getaway (2009). Elsa Pataky Turns 48: Chris Hemsworth Shares Adorable Birthday Wish for His ‘Gorgeous Lady’ on Her Special Day (View Pics).

In 2011, Hemsworth made his MCU debut as Thor, the Norse god of thunder, in Thor, directed by Kenneth Branagh. This role catapulted him to international fame and set the stage for a prolific film career. Hemsworth's portrayal of Thor was a mainstay in films such as The Avengers, Thor: The Dark World, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Thor: Ragnarok, Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, and Thor: Love and Thunder.

Beyond his role as Thor, Hemsworth has showcased his versatility as an actor in other franchises, such as Ghostbusters, Vacation, Extraction, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, etc. There are also some very underrated movies and performances of his that you need to check out. Furiosa - A Mad Max Saga Movie Review: Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth’s Film Is an Exhilarating Wild, Wild Ride Not to Be Missed!

On the occasion of his 41st birthday, here are five underrated movies starring the handsome actor and where to watch them online.

The Cabin in the Woods

Chris Hemsworth in The Cabin in the Woods

This meta-horror film is a love letter to horror films that is both smart and scary, with enough doses of black humour. Hemsworth plays a jock, who isn't quite lug-headed as the tropes go, and yet that trait goes horribly against him. The Cabin in the Woods is streaming on Prime Video.

Rush

Chris Hemsworth in Rush

This sports drama is based on the real-life rivalry between FI racers James Hunt and Niki Lauda, with Hemsworth playing the ill-fated Lauda. The film not only has some incredible racing scenes but also some affecting drama with good performances from Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Bruhl (aka MCU's Baron Zemo). Rush is streaming on JioCinema.

Blackhat

Chris Hemsworth in Blackhat

In this cyber-thriller, Chris Hemsworth plays Nicholas Hathaway, a skilled hacker released from prison to assist in the pursuit of a high-level cybercriminal network. Even though the great Michael Mann directed it, the film was met with an indifferent response when it came out. While it is not on the same level as Mann's great movies, Blackhat is still a thrilling watch. The movie is streaming on JioCinema and Netflix.

Vacation

Chris Hemsworth in Vacation

The 2015 film is the fifth instalment in the popular Vacation series, with Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Leslie Mann, Beverly D'Angelo, and Chevy Chase in the cast. While not the funniest film in the franchise, watch this comedy purely for Chris Hemsworth's cameo, as he easily steals the show despite his limited screentime. Extraction 2 Movie Review: Chris Hemsworth's Netflix Film Impresses With Its Well-Choreographed Action Scenes.

Bad Times at the El Royale

Chris Hemsworth in Bad Times at the El Royale

If you loved his negative turn in Furiosa, you should check Hemsworth out in this thriller, where he is reunited with his The Cabin in the Woods director, Drew Goddard. Even though he only appears in person in the third act, Hemsworth leaves a terrifying impression as the dangerous cult leader. You can purchase Bad Times at the El Royale on Prime Video.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 11, 2024 09:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).