The rumors can be put to a stop now as Lex Luthor and Alfred Pennyworth will be played by Jesse Eisenberg and Jeremy Irons.
According to a press release from Warner Bros., the role of Lex Luthor will be played by Jesse Eisenberg. Eisenberg has done well as an actor after The Social Network (2010) with his recent Now You See Me (2013), which shows off his potential to become Superman's nefarious villain, Lex Luthor. Now it may shock may fans to see this version of Lex Luthor who has been perceived as an older character. Eisenberg is in his early 30's, actually Henry Cavill (Superman) is the same age as Eisenberg so this is not about age, but more about appearance.
Lex appears as a very built figure with broad shoulders that commands attention and admiration. The way Eisenberg's physical appearance resembles the sign of the times of the hipsterish nerd guru. It's a different interpretation of the character that will fit today's time of what a wide international billionaire looks like today. It's a really good move to have such a contrast with Henry Cavill's Clark Kent/Superman and Ben Affleck's Bruce Wayne/Batman. When you think of Bruce Wayne who has been born into wealth, Eisenberg's Lex Luthor grew his power from the ground up through social network. It's really a beautiful constrast that needs to be seen to be believed. Zack Snyder had a few words to say about the movie's use of Luthor.
Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman’s rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940. What’s great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. He’s a complicated and sophisticated character whose intellect, wealth and prominence position him as one of the few mortals able to challenge the incredible might of Superman. Having Jesse in the role allows us to explore that interesting dynamic, and also take the character in some new and unexpected directions.
As for who will play as Bruce Wayne's butler and confidant, Jeremy Irons has been confirmed as Alfred Pennyworth. Irons has been on a television series called The Borgias where he plays as the ruthless Rodrigo Borgia. So, it will be good to see Irons dial back and become the understanding, supportive Alfred Pennyworth. Here is what Snyder has to say about the role of Alfred Pennyworth.
As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne’s most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman. It is an honor to have such an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor as Jeremy taking on the important role of the man who mentors and guides the guarded and nearly impervious façade that encapsulates Bruce Wayne.
Both actors have received acting awards for their performances in the past, so it seems that these two will fit right in for Batman/Superman also known as Man of Steel 2.
Posted by Kristina Collins
