Batman Begins Sequel Named. Joker Cast

[BreakABone]

I know I know.

I make a lot of threads here on superheroes, but it gives this area some activity. Right Stu.

Anyhow, the title of the next Batman film.. actually doesn't invovle Batman and will be called The Dark Knight. Of course one of Batman's many aliases.

Also, Heath Ledger of Brokeback Mountain fame has been cast as the Clown Prince of Crime himself, The Joker.

Source: Warner Bros. Pictures July 31, 2006

As a follow up to last year's blockbuster Batman Begins, Christopher Nolan is set to direct Warner Bros. Pictures' The Dark Knight, written by Jonathan Nolan, based on a story by Christopher Nolan and David Goyer. The film will be produced by Emma Thomas, Charles Roven and Christopher Nolan. Additionally, Christian Bale will resume his role as Bruce Wayne and Academy Award nominee Heath Ledger has been cast as The Joker. The announcements were made today by Jeff Robinov, President of Production, Warner Bros. Pictures.

Christopher Nolan revamped the Batman franchise in 2005 with the immensely successful Batman Begins, starring Christian Bale in the title role, which chronicled the early years of the superhero. Nolan first garnered attention from critics and fans in 2000 with the groundbreaking drama "Memento," which he wrote and directed. He went on to direct the thriller "Insomnia," starring Al Pacino and Robin Williams, and recently wrapped production on "The Prestige," with Hugh Jackman and Bale.

Bale was most recently seen in the ensemble cast of Terrence Malick's "The New World." His other credits include "Little Women," "Portrait of a Lady," "Metroland," "American Psycho," "Laurel Canyon" and Steven Spielberg's "Empire of the Sun," which was his first starring role.

Ledger most recently earned Oscar Golden Globe, BAFTA and SAG Award nominations and won the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ennis Del Mar in the award-winning drama "Brokeback Mountain." His other credits include "Casanova," "Monster's Ball," "Lords of Dogtown," "The Brothers Grimm" and "The Patriot."

"Chris' unique vision is what made 'Batman Begins' such an outstanding film and we could not imagine anyone else at the helm of 'The Dark Knight,'" said Robinov. "We also can't wait to see two such formidable actors as Christian and Heath face off with each other as Batman and The Joker."

"I'm excited to continue the story we started with 'Batman Begins,'" added Nolan. "Our challenge in casting The Joker was to find an actor who is not just extraordinarily talented but fearless. Watching Heath Ledger's interpretation of this iconic character taking on Christian Bale's Batman is going to be incredible."

Production is set to begin on The Dark Knight in early 2007.

[Ginkasa]

Wow, last I heard, Ledger was more than likely to turn down the role. I actually am excited that he's cast. I think he has a good face and have high hopes and can pull off the Joker well. I mean, who thought Gary Oldman would make a good James Gordon?

I like the title, too...


/me shrugs and walks away

[Professor S]

Crap. I really wanted Paul Bettany to play the joker. I think he's the best actor at playing a villian right now. For those who don't know who he is, he's best known for Wimbeldon, Firewall and playing Silas in The Davinci Code.

Actualy, his best performance was as the believeably demented gangster in Gangster No. 1. He's actually the only reason to watch the movie.

Here's hoping Ledger pulls out! I'm afraid he'll play it over the top instead of more subtle and vicious.

[GameMaster]

Will Heath ever be able to top Jack Nicholson's portrayal?

[Perfect Stu]

although he's a mediocre actor, i thought that from a looks-only perpsective, Dennis Quaid would make a good joker.






2nd place: Jack Black

[DarkMaster]

At one point Robin Williams was rumored to have been cast as the Joker. That would've been cool.

[Blackmane]

Well, I am somewhat skeptical as to whether Heath can pull this off or not. I feel that he will probably not be really believable. However, he does have the Joker's goofy face contorting grin.