In what can only be described as somewhat 'left-field' casting, the role of Lex Luthor in the delayed Superman/Batman film has gone to Jesse Eisenberg - best known for films such as Zombieland, Now You See Me and The Social Network. The young actor - aged 31 - is a surprise given that recent rumours had older actors such as Breaking Bad's Bryan Cranston up for the villainous role.
Also announced is the casting of Jeremy Irons in the role of Bruce Wayne's butler and mentor Alfred Pennyworth, most recently essayed by Sir Michael Caine in the Christopher Nolan trilogy.
The announcements came after news of the film being pushed back to a 2016 release, giving everyone involved some extra breathing room and moving it away from a crowded 2015 slate of releases.
In a statement, director Zack Snyder explained the casting choices...
"Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman’s rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940. 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...."
"As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne’s most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman. It is an honor to have such an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor as Jeremy taking on the important role of the man who mentors and guides the guarded and nearly impervious façade that encapsulates Bruce Wayne..."
