Batman-on-Film cites a reliable studio source that offers these rumors about the Joker, the villain of Chris Nolan's Batman Begins' planned sequel.
"As rumored and expected, The Joker is going to be nothing like [Jack] Nicholson's version from B89 [1989's Batman]. 'What would be the point in trying to recreate something that was done so well then?' the source asked.
"Expect to see a back story for The Joker and we shouldn't expect to see him until the middle of the film. 'Like Batman in BEGINS.'
"The Joker will not be the only villain in the film. 'I know you’ve heard this before but trust me -- Nolan and his brother have a couple of surprises up their sleeves!' the source said.
"Heath Ledger is perfect for the role as he has never played this kind of part before which is what Nolan was after. Think about it -- if you see Sam Rockwell or Robin Williams or even Hugo Weaving, you'd know exactly how they would play the role before even seeing the film and that's not very intriguing for fans is it? I have a feeling Paul Bettany was out of the mix after his performance in The Da Vinci Code."
"From what I've heard about the direction of the film expect The Joker to be very creepy and very extreme."
"Whatever you've heard about titles for the film -- pay no attention as the title will most likely not be known until they've finished shooting."
The source also touted Nolan's next movie, The Prestige, which stars Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johannsen, Michael Caine and David Bowie.
"Think the vision of BATMAN BEGINS mixed with the suspense of MEMENTO," the BOF source said.