'Batman vs. Superman' News: Joaquin Phoenix to Play Lex Luthor?
The "Batman vs. Superman" movie could be getting one of its major villains in actor Joaquin Phoenix, who could be playing famed maniacal businessman Lex Luthor. Phoenix has been shying away from big-budget films recently and opting for more artistic projects, but this could be his reintroduction to the mainstream.
Decisions on all the characters in "Batman vs. Superman" are still being made, but Warner Bros. seems to have pinpointed Joaquin Phoenix for an unnamed role in the project, according to Variety. It is not yet known whether the actor will accept the role or not.
Phoenix's past playing villains has led some to believe he will be playing the part of Lex Luthor, the founder and CEO of LexCorp and the antithesis to Superman. He previously played evil emperor Commodus in 2000's "Gladiator," which leaves no doubt in critics' minds that the Oscar-nominated actor could handle the dark intentions of Lex Luthor.
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Neither Phoenix nor Warner Bros. reps has commented on the reports.
Lex Luthor is presumed to be in the "Man of Steel" sequel because of hints dropped in the first film- Lexcorp was seen on the side of a building when Kal-el faced off against the equally-powered General Zod in a flying battle.
Lex Luthor may not be the only villain in the movie. Jason Momoa, who plays Dothraki chieftain Khal Drogo in "Game of Thrones," is currently negotiating to join the cast. He is rumored to be playing nearly indestructible villain Doomsday, who killed Superman in the comic books.
Superman, who will be reprised by U.K. actor Henry Cavill, will most likely have some help in the forms of Batman (Ben Affleck) and Wonder Woman ("Fast and Furious" actress Gal Godot), who have been revealed to be in the film. Their presence could create the beginning of the Justice League to rival Marvel's "Avengers."
Zack Snyder will return to direct "Batman vs. Superman," and the film is slated for release July 17, 2015.
