'Batman Vs. Superman' Gets Helmer

Wolfgang Petersen will direct "Batman vs. Superman" for Warner Bros. Pictures, reports Variety.

In a script penned by Andrew Kevin Walker ("Seven"), the two superheroes are allies who come to mighty blows over what Petersen describes as differing philosophies.

"It is a clash of the titans," Petersen told Variety. "They play off of each other so perfectly. (Superman) is clear, bright, all that is noble and good, and Batman represents the dark, obsessive and vengeful side. They are two sides of the same coin and that is material for great drama."

Neither of Petersen's superheroes have been cast. However, just as Sam Raimi made the unlikely choice of Tobey Maguire for his hit "Spider-Man," Petersen said he is seeking actors who can offer complex emotions as well as six-pack abs.

"Everything after Sept. 11 is different," he said. "You want to change the image of these superheroes."

In particular, Petersen pointed to "The Bourne Identity" star Matt Damon as "an interesting action man and a hell of an actor."

The filmmaker cited early 2003 as a realistic start date, with plans for five or six months of shooting.

"It was just too exciting to me not to do "Batman vs. Superman" now," he said. "It's good to have a handful of projects cooking in your drawer. Let's see what happens after this."

The tentpole movie is targeted for a 2004 release.