Jesse Eisenberg to Play Lex Luthor in Batman-Superman Film

First Mark Zuckerberg, now Lex Luthor? The Social Networkstar Jesse Eisenberg has been cast as Supermans arch-nemesis in the upcoming (and still-untitled) Batman vs. Superman film, Warner Bros. announced today. Veteran character actor Jeremy Irons has also signed on to play Alfred, the mentor/butler of Bruce Wayne, in the sequel to 2013s Man of Steel.

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With his boy-next-door appeal, the 30-year-old Eisenberg is an unconventional choice for the role, but director Zack Snyder says the actor will allow for a complex take on the character.

Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Supermans rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940, Snyder said in a statement. Whats great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. Hes 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.

Speaking about the Alfred role, Snyder praised Irons as an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor.

As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Waynes most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure, he said. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman.

In recent months, the projects casting has been shrouded in gossip; early reportslinked the Lex Luthor role to Breaking Badstar Bryan Cranston. While the cast hasnt been completely finalized, the filmwill reunite Henry Cavill (as Superman) with Man of Steel castmatesAmy Adams, Laurence Fishburne and Diane Lane. Israeli actress Gal Gadot recently signed on to play Wonder Woman, while Ben Affleck is set to play Batman a casting decision thats been less than well-received.

Fantasy veteran David S. Goyer will write the script (with a polish from Oscar winningArgoscreenwriter Chris Terrio), based on a story cowritten by Goyer and Snyder. The film is currently in pre-production and set for a release date of May 6th, 2016 recently pushed back from July 2015.