- Plucky astrophysicist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) monitors the New Mexico sky for signs of unique astrological phenomenon—Einstein-Rosen bridges, better known by their street name: wormholes.
- She's accompanied by her skeptical mentor Erik (Stellan Skarsgard) and underpaid intern Darcy (Kat Dennings).
- They spot a much, much more prominent phenomenon than expected and head out in their Jeep after it.
- Their wild ride is interrupted by the sudden appearance of a tall blonde man (Chris Hemsworth), who Jane hits with her car. Whoops.