Jesse Eisenberg Cast as Lex Luthor in Batman-Superman

Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Jesse Eisenberg has been cast as Lex Luthor in the upcoming Batman-Superman film.

…interesting.

Eisenberg is best known for his role as Mark Zuckerberg in “The Social Network” back in 2009.

This announcement comes just two weeks after Warner pushed production on the film, moving the release date from July 2015 to May 2016.

“Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman’s rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940,” director Zack Snyder stated during the announcement. “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.”

Alongside Eisenberg, Jeremy Irons will be portraying Alfred Pennyworth.

“As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne’s most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure,” Snyder continued. “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.”

While the casting so far has left me surprised and extremely curious, I admire that Snyder’s choices have not been the most predictable. I’m looking forward to seeing how our characters will be uniquely portrayed.

What is your opinion on the casting of our notorious villain and most admired butler? Leave your comments below!

(via IGN.com)