Variety and The Hollywood Reporter confirm that Natalie Portman will star as the love interest in Marvel Comics' upcoming adaptation of Thor.
Chris Hemsworth has already been cast in the title role. Portman will play Jane Foster, a nurse who becomes Thor's first love interest early in the comic book series. The story involves Thor's banishment to the world of everyday humanity after he commits reckless actions in battle.
The movie is being directed by Kenneth Branagh, who is best known for his cinematic interpretations of Shakespeare. It is set to begin shooting early next year and is slated for a May 20, 2011 release.
Other upcoming Portman projects include Jim Sheridan's Brothers, starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Tobey Maguire; Darren Aronofsky's Black Swan; David Gordon Green's Your Highness; and the ensemble vehicle New York, I Love You.