From Facebook to Superman… Eisenberg cast as Lex Luthor, Jeremy Irons is Alfred

Say what you want about Batman vs. Superman vs. Wonder Woman vs. Lex Luthor but there is rarely a news that is unsurprising (the jury on good or bad is still out). And the two new casting announcements are no different. Introducing the new Lex Luthor and Alfred:

Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network) and Jeremy Irons (Margin Call)!

Hit the jump for comments by Zack Snyder on the casting.

On Jesse Eisenberg as Lex 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

And Jeremy Irons as Alfred:

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.

Quotes taken from Batman-News.

Much like Ben Affleck my reaction was more surprised/baffled than negative. Jesse Eisenberg especially is a talented actor and I loved his performance in The Social Network. I am curious what this interpretation of Lex Luthor will be, if Eisenberg just plays him as Zuckerberg version 2.0. If he does and if they go for the dynamic young egomaniac then I just hope that they don’t cut hjs hair. Having a bald young Lex Luthor would kind of defeat the purpose of this radical reimagining.

About Jeremy Irons I can’t say much since I haven’t seen him in good movies and in the movies I saw him with he had the talent of being the saving grace in an otherwise terrible movie – so that might come in handy with this monstrous superhero mashup.