24 Jan – Anne Hathaway has been cast as Catwoman in the forthcoming Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" filling in the paws of the previous feline fatale played by Michelle Pfeiffer in 1992's "Batman Returns" as well as Halle Berry in 2004's "Catwoman", as confirmed by director Christopher Nolan recently.
In a statement which had been circulating through multiple online sites, Nolan said, "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Anne Hathaway, who will be a fantastic addition to our ensemble as we complete our story."
The "Inception" filmmaker also confirmed that one of his previous actors, Tom Hardy would be starring as Bane, a chemically-altered super villain with a high intellect who was born and grew up in prison, who has previously appeared as Poison Ivy's bodyguard in the much derided 1997's film "Batman & Robin".
He added, "I am delighted to be working with Tom again and excited to watch him bring to life our new interpretation of one of Batman's most formidable enemies."
Christian Bale will reprise his performance as the titular character, while Michael Caine is expected to again play the role of Alfred the butler.
Based on the DC Comics character Batman, the film is touted as the final instalment in Nolan's Batman film series and the second sequel to 2005's "Batman Begins".
"The Dark Knight Rises" is slated for release at the cinemas in 2012.