'The Dark Knight Rises': Anne Hathaway Is Catwoman, Tom Hardy Is Villain Bane

 Batman will get a sexy and equal counterpart in "The Dark Knight Rises". Warner Bros. Pictures has announced through a press release that Catwoman will appear in the movie and the role goes to Anne Hathaway, which was mentioned among the list of possible female lead for the film.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Anne Hathaway, who will be a fantastic addition to our ensemble as we complete our story," director

Christopher Nolan says. The "Alice in Wonderland" star reportedly beat out the likes of Jessica Biel and Keira Knightley for the part.

The press release additionally unveils that Bane is the next Batman's villain. The character, a chemically created brute who first appeared in the comics in 1993, will be portrayed by Tom Hardy whose casting has been known before.

On Hardy, Nolan comments, "I am delighted to be working with Tom again and excited to watch him bring to life our new interpretation of one of Batman's most formidable enemies." The filmmaker has previously directed the actor in "Inception".

Both Hathaway and Hardy join Christian Bale who will reprise his role as Bruce Wayne aka Batman. This third Batman film from Nolan will begin shooting on May 6 for a planned July 20, 2012 U.S. release.

Anne Hathaway was last seen in "Love and Other Drugs" and will team up with James Franco to host 2011 Academy Awards. As for Tom Hardy, he has wrapped "This Means War" and is set to star in "Mad Max: Fury Road".