First look at Chris Hemsworth in next year's 'Thor'

Posted Friday, April 30, 2010 at 11:44 AM Central
Last updated Friday, April 30, 2010 at 11:46 AM Central

by Tim Briscoe

Marvel Studios, via Yahoo! Movies, has released the first photo of actor Chris Hemsworth as Thor. The classic comic character, created by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, and Larry Lieber, is the latest in the Marvel stable to receive the big-screen treatment.

Aussie-born Hemsworth is a relative unknown her in the States. That's all about change with Thor and 2012's Avengers film which is sure to include the character. Hemworth did play George Kirk, father to good ol' James T. Kirk, in last year's Star Trek.

The photo is easily recognizable by comic fans. It features Thor's long, golden locks, circle-emblazoned chest plate, and arched cape. What's missing, at least in this pic, is his winged helmet and magic hammer known as Mjolnir.

I'm certain these missing elements will be in the film. Mjolnir is, after all, the source of Thor's power. Its presence is bound to turn up very, very soon. (Read into that, what you will.)

The film is being director by the classical actor Kenneth Branagh. The cast also includes Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Idris Elba, Ray Stevenson, Kat Dennings, and Rene Russo. Packing this much talent, Thor has some high expectations.

Thor arrives in theaters a little more than a year from now. It's been nailed down for May 6, 2011.