Veteran actress Rene Russo has signed on to appear in Kenneth Branagh’s greatly anticipated adaptation of “Thor.”
According to Variety, Russo has been cast as Frigga, the wife of Odin — portrayed by Anthony Hopkins in the film — and the mother of Thor and Loki, who are played by Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston respectively.
Frigga’s role in the film may differ from her few appearances in the “Thor” comic. In Marvel’s continuity, Frigga is the step-mother of both Thor and Loki — not their actual mother. Thor is the son of Odin and the Earth goddess Gaea while Loki is adopted by Odin after his Frost Giant parents are slain in battle.
It’s worth noting that Variety’s description of the film’s story has changed slightly. In the article, Thor is described a “powerful but arrogant warrior Thor reigniting an ancient war. As punishment, Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans. Once here, he learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends dark forces of Asgard to invade Earth.”
Variety’s previous description of the story seemed to suggest the presence of Thor’s alter-ego, Donald Blake.
“Thor” is set to begin shooting next month for release on May 20, 2011. “Thor” screenwriters Mark Protosevich and Zack Stentz have recently been signed to adapt “Damn Nation”, a vampire comic first published by Dark Horse Comics.
What are your thoughts on Russo’s casting? Should Frigga be Thor’s actual mother or should they stay with the established Marvel continuity? Call down the thunder and let us know what you’re thinking in our comment section below or on Twitter!