Cast member Chris Hemsworth (2nd L) jokes with co-star Chris Evans (L) at a press line for the movie "Avengers: Age of Ultron"
IN PHOTO: Cast member Chris Hemsworth (2nd L) jokes with co-star Chris Evans (L) at a press line for the movie "Avengers: Age of Ultron" during the 2014 Comic-Con International Convention in San Diego, California July 26, 2014. Reuters/Mario Anzuoni

Australian actor Chris Hemsworth thinks that securing an extended contract with Marvel as comic book hero "Thor" is a major blessing. Hemsworth has been playing the "Thor, The God of Thunder," a character based on Norse Mythology which has been adapted by Marvel as a character in comic books and a series of films. In a recent interview, he details how landing the role has benefitted his career.

"I can't speak for anyone else, but for me it's been nothing but a blessing to do the Marvel stuff. It opened up every door available to me." said Hemsworth in an interview with Eric Eisenberg of Cinemablend. He further explained that his starring role in the first "Thor" movie led to other successful projects outside of the franchise. He said that he landed the role of eccentric race car driver James Hunt for the movie "Rush" after the film's director Ron Howard saw his performance in "Thor."

Hemsworth also explained that being tied down to several Marvel Films is not a problem because the projects are spaced out in such a way that he is still able to work on other projects outside of the franchise. His character "Thor" has his own series of film and is also included in the highly successful "Avengers" franchise.

The first "Thor" movie came out back in 2011 and Hemsworth has since starred in the sequel entitled "Thor: The Dark World." Another sequel has also been announced by the studio which secures his career until the 2017 release date. The third film is entitled "Thor: Ragnarok."

As for the "Avengers" franchise, Hemsworth's character appeared in the first film which came out in 2012. The sequel entitled "Avengers: Age of Ultron," is set to come out this year. In between his Marvel films, Hemsworth is also able to pursue other film genres. This year, he is set to appear in cybercrime drama "Blackhat." He also has "In the Heart of the Sea" and adventure Comedy "Vacation" lined up this year according to his IMDb profile. Since becoming a father to three kids, Hemsworth has expressed his desire to become more critical about choosing his film projects. He said in a recent interview that becoming a father means that his projects must be worth the time he spends away from his family.

Contact the writer at: c.caparras@ibtimes.com.au