Joaquin Phoenix is reportedly being eyed to play the lead villain in Warner Bros. Batman Vs Superman film.

Variety is reporting that Warner Bros. is very interested in casting the Oscar-winning actor for the lead villain role in the untitled Batman Vs Superman film. It’s clearly in the early stages as neither the studio or Phoenix’s reps would comment.

It would certainly be unusual for Joaquin to sign on for such a big blockbuster, as he’s steered clear of them by playing roles in much smaller films. With his recent role in Her being praised, we’d be surprised to see him take on such a role – but that doesn’t mean it can’t happen.

Phoenix is currently looking at Gus Van Sant’s Sea of Trees, which may decide whether he would be available for Batman Vs Superman, which is already in pre-production.

While the report concerning Pheonix can’t be confirmed, it’s likely we’ll be seeing Lex Luthor as the main villain in the Man of Steel sequel. Jason Momoa was recently added to the cast as a villain, while Gal Gadot has been cast as Wonder Woman.

Director Zack Snyder has jammed his movie full with actors and characters, so we’ll be curious to see what ends up being the focus of the film. We often forget that Ben Affleck will be making his first appearance as Batman in this film as well, which should still be the main focus.

Batman Vs Superman’s release date is set for July 17, 2015. Man of Steel actor Henry Cavill will return along with Amy Adams as Lois Lane.