Sir Anthony Hopkins is to be a comic book superhero after landing the role of Thor's father in Marvel Studio's new blockbuster.

The Silence of The Lambs star will portray King Odin in the new movie, which will go before cameras early next year.

Chris Hemsworth will play the lead in the film, which will be directed by Kenneth Branagh.

Natalie Portman is slated to play Thor's love interest, Jane Foster.