Cork actor Cillian Murphy has been cast as one of the villains in the fifth installment of the 'Batman' franchise.
29-year-old Murphy came to the attention of director Christopher Nolan when he screentested for the role of Batman; the part subsequently went to Christian Bale.
Michael Caine has been cast as butler Alfred Pennyworth and Katie Holmes is in the running to play the female lead.
The film has been scripted by David Goyer and is due to start filming in England next year for a 2005 release.
Murphy, recently acclaimed in the US for his role in zombie flick '28 Days Later', is due to appear on cinema screens nationwide on 16 January in 'Girl With a Pearl Earring'.
He also appeared in John Crowley's ensemble drama 'Intermission' and 2001's 'Disco Pigs'.