Riddler is next Batman villain – Joseph Gordon Levitt to star?

[HMG] – When director, Christopher Nolan last took charge of Batman the result was ‘Dark Knight’ — which hauled in over $500-million in the US alone. Now the word is The Riddler will be the star of Batman 3, and Inception star Joseph Gordon-Levitt could be in the suit.

Reports — so-far, unconfirmed – by First Showing say that a Casting Grid now in use at Warner Bros, who are making the movie, proves that ‘Edward Nygma’ — better known as ‘The Riddler’ – will be the villain in this installment, and that Levitt is listed as ‘interested’ in taking the part.

Two things should mentioned: First, a casting grid is used by production companies and others involved in a movie to keep track of its progress and who wants to be in it. They’re just used for planning — not a final decision.

And second, that vast exhibition of nerdish humanity, ‘ComicCon’ starts next week, and a leak about a huge comic-based movie involving an actor who is currently hot will get immense coverage in the press and the blogs. And it’s free.

So don’t start lining up yet.

That being said, the age range for The Riddler shown on the grid is said to be ’34-45.’ Joseph is just 29, but some very minor make-up would soon resolve that.

Another point in Joe’s favor is his role in ‘Inception’ — which Nolan directed. Both men’s work has been superbly received and they get on very well. Joe even called him “A real artist, and a unique voice.”

And if you’ve got Batman’s director on your side, that’s a great help in getting the job.

So the Riddler being listed on a casting grid is firm proof that he’s ‘Batman 3′s villain. As for Joseph’s name being seen on that list…Not so much.

And the film does not even open until July 2012, so expect a lot more leaks and self-serving rumors between now and then…