It’s confirmed! The studio announced today that Superman’s ultimate nemesis with be played by none other than…the Facebook guy?!
Yep, Jesse Eisenberg, the Oscar-nominated star of THE SOCIAL NETWORK, will be taking on the role of the infamous Lex Luthor in the still untitled Superman vs. Batman film.
It’s a surprising spot of casting to say the least (but then, so was Ben Affleck as Batman…so maybe we should have been expecting it) but director Zack Snyder is more than confident in the choice:
“Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman’s rivals, his unsavoury reputation preceding him since 1940” Snyder said in a statement announcing the Eisenberg deal;
“What’s great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. He’s a complicated and sophisticated character whose intellect, wealth and prominence position him as one of the few mortals able to challenge the incredible might of Superman. Having Jesse in the role allows us to explore that interesting dynamic, and also take the character in some new and unexpected directions.”
Hmmm… nicely put Zack! I’m almost convinced. Though comic book purists will not doubt still be shaking their heads: Eisenberg is known for his ability to play anxious and insecure – not traits traditionally associated with Luthor.
He joins an already impressive cast, including Henry Cavill, Amy Adams and Diane Lane who will be reprising their MAN OF STEEL roles, as well as Jeremy Irons as the Batman’s trusted butler Alfred.
The flick has been pushed back to 2016 so patience is a virtue with this one!
