Natalie Portman Getting Hammered For Thor

In addition to being a respected actress, Natalie Portman is something of a geek muse, having traipsed through properties like Star Wars, V for Vendetta, Mars Attacks!, and the dystopian sci-fi fantasy Where the Heart Is. Now, she's been cast in another fanboy property (and no, it is not Asteroids, despite our best advice).

It was announced today that she'll be joining Verge alum Chris Hemsworth in Kenneth Branagh's Thor, bringing a much-needed dose of name appeal to that production. Says THR:

Portman will play Jane Foster, who in early comic book lore was a nurse who became Thor's first love. The studio said the character will be updated for the feature adaptation. [...]

"Thor" is Marvel's stab at an epic fantasy adventure, spanning from present-day Earth to the realm of Asgard. The story centers on Thor, a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. As punishment, Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans but once here, he 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.

Waitwaitwait. She's not playing Thor? Guys, you should have seen the movie in my head. It was pretty bitchin'.

· Natalie Portman joins Marvel's 'Thor' [THR]