Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a Brit. Word reaches us that the next Superman film will star English actor Henry Cavill as the man of steel, replacing one-time hero Brandon Routh. Zack Snyder, the future-film’s director, announced the decision today in a joint statement from Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures.
No stranger to comic book adaptations, the Watchmen and 300 director said that “in the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time, and I am honoured to be a part of his return to the big screen. I also join Warner Bros., Legendary and the producers in saying how excited we are about the casting of Henry. He is the perfect choice to don the cape and S shield.”
Cavill almost landed the role for the less-than spectacular reboot Superman Returns, but lost out to Routh when Bryan Singer took the helm. With a modest amount of star power, the role could be Cavill’s big break, or his biggest regret – the curse of Superman anyone? Just go ask Routh, if you can find him in the Hollywood abyss that is.
Set to be scripted by cinematic superhero saviour Christopher Nolan, Superman will by flying into theatres in December 2012, under the working-title Man of Steel.
