Hathaway’s Selina Kyle and Hardy’s Bane in The Dark Knight Rises

It’s finally been announced after months of speculation that Anne Hathaway will play Selina Kyle a.k.a. Catwoman in Christopher Nolan’s third (and final?) Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises. Also announced is rising star Tom Hardy’s role in the new movie, as Bane the man responsible for breaking Batman’s back in the comics.

Bane of course was present in the abomination that was Batman & Robin, but he really didn’t do much. Nolan is promising a different interpretation of the chaacter, and with Hardy in the role it’s safe to say a much better one.

Hathaway’s casting is good, as she is usually solid in most movies, and although the press release doesn’t state the inclusion of Catwoman most adolescent fan-boys won’t mind seeing her in leather.

The Dark Knight Rises will be released July 20, 2012, so mark your calendars!

The full press release:

BURBANK, CA, January 19, 2011 – Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that Anne Hathaway has been cast as Selina Kyle in Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Rises.” She will be starring alongside Christian Bale, who returns in the title role of Bruce Wayne/Batman.

Christopher Nolan stated, “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.”

In addition, Tom Hardy has been set to play Bane. Nolan said, “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.”

Nolan will direct the film from a screenplay he wrote with Jonathan Nolan, from a story by Christopher Nolan and David S. Goyer. Nolan will also produce the film with his longtime producing partner, Emma Thomas, and Charles Roven.

“The Dark Knight Rises” is slated for release on July 20, 2012. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.