Ben Affleck has been cast as Batman in Warner Bros.’ Man of Steel sequel, which will team Affleck’s Batman with Henry Cavill as Superman, The studio announced Thursday evening.  As revealed at Comic-Con, the film will be written by David Goyer, who co-wrote Man of Steel, and directed by Zack Snyder, who directed Man of Steel and 300 (see "'Batman / Superman' Team-up Movie in 2015").  Man of Steel cast members Amy Adams, Laurence Fishburne, and Diane Lane will also appear in the new film.

A release date of July 17, 2015 has been set. 

The storyline has not been disclosed, but Snyder says it will not be based on Frank Miller’s Dark Knight, according to the report.  He does have ideas about how Affleck’s role will take shape, however.  "Ben provides an interesting counter-balance to Henry’s Superman," Snyder said.  "He has the acting chops to create a layered portrayal of a man who is older and wiser than Clark Kent and bears the scars of a seasoned crime fighter but retains the charm that the world sees in billionaire Bruce Wayne."

Affleck has two Oscars, for directing (Argo) and writing (Good Will Hunting).