Natalie Portman will join the cast of Thor, the movie based on the Marvel Comics’ version of the Asgardian god of thunder, according to the studio.
Portman will portray Jane Foster, which longtime fans of the original comics may know as the romantic interest of Thor’s human identity Donald Blake. The character will get “updated” for the movie, according to Marvel.
Chris Hemsworth, who plays Thor with Tom Hiddleston as his evil half-brother Loki, round out the main cast. Kenneth Branagh will direct. Principal photography for the film is set for early 2010 and tentatively released May 20, 2011.
Marvel Studios expands its film universe with a new type of super hero: “Thor.” This epic adventure spans the Marvel Universe; from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is The Mighty Thor, a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans as punishment. Once here, Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.
[Source: Marvel]
Sweet. This lineup is looking good, in that, besides Natalie, it’s relatively unknowns.