Ben Affleck to play Batman in 'Man of Steel' sequel

Ben Affleck will play Batman opposite Henry Cavill in a sequel to Man of Steel, Warner Bros announced yesterday.

Director Zack Snyder expressed his excitement about the casting of Affleck, noting: "Ben provides an interesting counter-balance to Henry's Superman.

"He has the acting chops to create a layered portrayal of a man who is older and wiser than Clark Kent and bears the scars of a seasoned crime fighter, but retains the charm that the world sees in billionaire Bruce Wayne. I can't wait to work with him."

Snyder, who also directed Man of Steel, will co-write the story with David Goyer, who will pen the screenplay. Production is expected to begin next year, with a July 17, 2015, release date.

Affleck has a history in the superhero genre. He previously starred as the blind Marvel hero Daredevil in writer-director Mark Steven Johnson's 2003 flop of the same name.