The comic book adaptation that could change the genre forever–’Thor’–begins shooting today.  The Kenneth Branagh-directed film features an outstanding cast and a supposedly brilliant script.

In other ‘Thor’ news, actor Stuart Townsend is out as Fandral, according to the Associated Press.  ‘Creative differences’ was cited by the AP.  Townsend has had this happen previously, when he was supposed to play Arragorn in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.  We’re guessing that mis-step still stings.

Joshua Dallas replaces Townsend.  We know nothing about Dallas, other than he’s in an upcoming George Lucas film.

Rene Russo has joined the cast of ‘Thor,’ according to Variety.  The actress will play Thor’s mother, Frigga.

With Anthony Hopkins, Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Tom Hiddleston,  Russo (and others), we’re wondering: is this the best cast EVER for a comic book film?