by Lawrence E. Pacheco With news that Warner Bros. is hot on a brand new Justice League script, diehard fans are wondering just what this anticipated movie will be like. What versions of the heroes will they use? What evil villains will face our heroes? A word of caution... possible spoilers ahead. The facts What we do know, so far, is that the script, written by Kieran and Michele Mulroney, has been greenlit by Warner Bros. to be a live-action film and not a CGI animated film as was rumored and is on the "fast-track" for a 2009 release date. The film will be directed by George Miller (Happy Feet). The studio needs a "superhero tentpole" movie to be released in 2009. The studio, as with others, has been in a rush to finish sctipts and greenlight projects before the possible upcoming writers strike. The heroes Unlike its live-action, never aired TV series pilot counterpart from the early 1990s, this Justice League film is said to carry the "Magnificent 7" of the League. But just which seven will it be? Superman Not long after Superman Returns, star Brandon Routh is gearing up for the planned sequel Superman: The Man of Steel. If you are waiting to see Routh's Superman team with the other members of the JLA... don't hold your breath. The producers are casting yet another actor to play Big Blue. Among the rumored actors who allegedly tested for the role was Rupert Evans of Hellboy fame. Batman Fans loved Christian Bale in Batman Begins and are waiting like kids at Christmas time for its sequel The Dark Knight. To their dismay, however, it has been reported that Bale will NOT be wearing the definitive cowl as Batman in the new Justice League film. Casting is still, apparently, going on to find another actor to play the role. Wonder Woman Early on, websites were reporting the story that Jessica Biel allegedly turned down the role of Wonder Woman. Recently, other actors have been connected with having tested for the character including Victoria Hill, Minka Kelly and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. The most recent actor reported to have auditioned for the role was Teresa Palmer whose most famous film to date was The Grudge 2. Green Lantern As it was with the Justice League animated series, this movie is slated to contain the John Stewart version of Green Lantern. During the Warner casting, rap musician Common allegedly tested for the role. No word yet, as is with all the other heroes, on who will be signed to play the role. The Flash It was recently revealed that Director David Dobkin will helm the new Flash movie that is in the works. He has claimed that it is intended as a sequel to the Justice League movie, and that the alter-ego of choice will be Wally West. Martian Manhunter As of this issue of Occasional Orb, it is unclear whether or not Martian Manhunter will be in the film at all. The publication Hollywood Reporter claims that this was indeed a role that was tested for, but no proof has been given so far. Aquaman No official word on whether or not Aquaman will be in the film. In September, Variety magazine has claimed that the character will "likely" be in the film but that is pure speculation. Hawkman Another character whose involvement remains unclear. Rumors are abound that Hawkman will make a appearance, but don't believe it until Warner releases official word. Green Arrow According to Internet Movie Database, the plot to the film, which we won't say here, involves the character Green Arrow. With the plethora of fake scripts being tossed around the internet, however, it is very wise to treat this as rumor only! This includes the alleged plot and the IMDB claimed release year of 2010. My thoughts If I had my wish, both Christian Bale and Brandon Routh would be in this film. The audience has already accepted the two as the characters and it would be great to see them team up with other heroes. Nevertheless, the powers that be at Warner Bros are determined to make this work with new faces in the roles. Who knows? Maybe this movie will be the best superhero flick EVER! I, for one, certainly hope so.

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