For those of you reading this who have not yet seen the third installment in Marvel’s Thor movies—what are you waiting for? I will do my best to avoid any major spoilers.

Far be it from a happy-go-lucky moment in the U.S.’s history right now, any little thing to set some distance between ourselves, mentally at least, from the chaos ensuing currently is worth acknowledging.

It is neither my place to make as bold a claim as follows nor do I actually believe a superhero film could ever bring about the change this country so desperately needs, but, as my title suggests, Thor: Ragnarok may very well be the best thing to happen to America right now.

1. Humor

Marvel has always had a way with jokes and comedic timing, but this movie takes the cake. Taika Waititi proves yet again that he is a funny man. In my opinion, it gives Guardians of the Galaxy a run for its money in terms of Marvel’s greatest comedic film to date. From Korg saying pretty much anything to Loki’s antics to Matt Damon’s cameo, this movie is one never-ending chuckle. Laughter, as they say, is the greatest medicine.

2. Powerful women

With wage gaps and sexual harassment topping the news lines as of late, there has never been a more worthy time to see women represented as strong, capable figures onscreen. Wonder Woman may have paved the way, but Hela and Valkyrie raise the bar even further.

They are formidable warriors in their own right and both arguably more independent than their male counterparts. If the trailer itself doesn’t give it away, Hela is a force to reckon with.

3. Celebration of diversity

Most of this film takes place on Sakaar, a garbage heap of a planet home to perhaps some of the least fortunate individuals in the universe. Many are forced either to scavenge to survive or fight in the arena to… well, survive. The cast—of characters, not actors—includes an insect with blades for arms, a talking rock, and several other species whose appearances differ greatly from Thor and his Asgardians. Does this stop them from working together? Nope.

4. Cooperation

The broship between Thor and Hulk is nothing to scoff at. It’s actually one of the most appealing factors of Marvel’s marketing efforts. Working together toward a common goal was one of the more powerful themes present throughout the film’s duration. With our country going through so many differing opinions and struggling to come together after moments of violence or natural disasters, maybe it’s time we stop viewing one another as members of other states or ethnicities, but all citizens of a country looking to build better lives.

5. Inner strength

This reason is perhaps the most difficult to explain without giving away too much of the movie. Just know that you are more than your material belongings and that we as individuals are the true foundation of this country. You’ll have to watch the movie to truly understand why I say this.

6. A movie for the people

I am not suggesting we rebel against the government. Nor am I saying that our current leader is someone who enjoys sport more than utilizing his position to better the lives of his nation’s citizens… oh, wait. It is clear from both the teasers and the movie itself that the government is not always as just as it should be, nor does it always make its decisions in the best interest of its people. Hmm…

7. A change in pace

The third installment is undoubtedly a different entity than its two predecessors. It is funnier, more colorful, and just overall more enjoyable to watch. Sometimes change is necessary in order to succeed. Perhaps the polarity of our political system can watch this movie and take a cue or two from its deviation.

8. Finally, a distraction

Lastly, this movie is just a great way to get away from everything going on right now and sometimes that is more important than any deeper takeaway. Sure, there’s plenty to look at and contemplate regarding the connections between the U.S. and Asgard, but if even for its entertainment value alone, Ragnarok has a set place in my heart.

A steady laugh and a constant smile are two things that, though simple and otherwise meaningless, improved my outlook and overall feeling towards life and current events lately. And for that, I am thankful.