Marvel Has Picked a Nemesis for ‘Thor’

Published by Jeff Leins on May 18, 2009

On Saturday, Marvel and director Kenneth Branagh finally selected the lead actor for Thor.  Chris Hemsworth will headline the comic book adaptation set for theaters on May 20, 2011.  With a hero lined up, a villain is the next logical step.  The news slipped quietly today who was playing Loki, Thor’s brother and the God of Lies and Mischief.

According to Nikki Finke, who broke the news about Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston has been cast as Loki to do battle with the God of Thunder. Another relative unknown for a major Hollywood role.  Marvel is really rolling the dice on this one.  British-born Hiddleston has appeared in a few TV movies and shows and won “Best Newcomer” at the Oliviers in 2008.  He acted alongside Branagh in the BBC miniseries “Wallander.”

In the comic lore, the gods of Asgard look favorably on Thor because of his physical strength and bravery.  Loki lacked those traits, but was gifted in sorcery, which he used to play increasingly malicious pranks on the other residents of the mythological realm.  Thor battled his brother who attempted to seize power of Asgard until he was exiled to Earth.

An interesting note from the comics: Loki tricks the Hulk into wreaking havoc, which eventually leads to the formation of The Avengers, a planned movie already scheduled for May 2012.

The story may not follow this path exactly, but rumors have emerged that the plot will take place primarily in the land of Norse gods and goddesses.  Branagh’s love for all things Shakespearean seems to slightly support the mythological angle.  Then again, the rumors also said Josh Hartnett was being considered for the role of Loki, and they were obviously false.

The only thing left is to pick a love interest.  So far Finke has been right on the money with her Marvel news scoops, and the last report on a female lead tapped Natalie Portman for the part.  I would imagine they have to cast a name at some point, right?  Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad they’re mounting an extensive search for the most talented people around, but it may be difficult to sell tickets to see a third-tier superhero surrounded by a cast of unfamiliar faces.