It’s finally official: Chris Nolan is returning to direct the sequel to Batman Begins and the new film will feature iconic villain The Joker.
And here are the crucial nuggets of information – Heath Ledger will play the grinning baddie, and the movie’s called The Dark Knight. The script this time out is by Nolan’s brother Jonathan, working from a story by Chris and Begins collaborator David Goyer. And yes, Christian Bale, to no-one’s surprise, is back as Bats.
"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," enthused Warners Jeff Robinov in the announcement. "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."
And Nolan was equally upbeat: "I'm excited to continue the story we started with Batman Begins. "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."
We hope he’s right – they’ll start shooting early next year for a likely 2008 release date.