Batman Superman movie casting rumor news: Joaquin Phoenix is rumored to be in the running for the new Batman Superman movie. No, not the man in black, but this is a villain who's just as renowned, in the world of comics.

Variety is quoting sources saying that Joaquin Phoenix might play the infamous baddie, Lex Luthor, Superman's main nemesis.

Batman Superman movie casting rumors have been flying fast and furious. There was a flurry of activity after reports went out that Wonder Woman was going to Appear in Batman-Superman. No one was sure whether it was the truth until Gal Godot threw her golden lasso around the Wonder Woman role in "Batman vs. Superman." Gossip went around that Jason Momoa was being looked at for a role in the new Batman-Superman movie. Callan Mulvey has also been linked to the film.

Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix is riding high after getting rave notices for his performance in the movie "Her." He just might be rewarded with what will be an instantly iconic role in Warner Bros.'s biggest property. Phoenix is also reported to be considering a role in the upcoming Gus Van Sant film "Sea of Trees."

Insiders are telling variety that Warner Bros wants Phoenix, but the actor has avoided blockbusters for the past few years, preferring to stretch his acting talents in smaller prestige movies. That's not to say it takes less talent to play a super-baddie in a comic book movie. And the actor just might to it for the fun of it. Comic movie villains are a blast.

The source couldn't confirm whether Phoenix would be playing Lex Luthor.

There's been no word from Joaquin Phoenix or Warner Bros yet.

Superman Vs Batman will star Henry Cavill as Superman, Ben Affleck as Batman and Amy Adams. It will be directed by Zack Snyder. "Superman Vs. Batman" is slated to open July 17, 2005.