Zack Snyder signs up for 'Superman'

By Adnan Tezer Oct 5, 2010, 19:04 GMT

Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures are going with director Zack Snyder to reboot the Superman franchise.

According to Variety, Snyder will work with Christopher Nolan in developing the film.

Nolan is set to direct the third Batman film, scheduled for a July 20, 2012, release date.

Nolan will produce with wife Emma Thomas, as well as Charles Roven ("The Dark Knight") and Deborah Snyder ("Watchmen," "Sucker Punch").

David Goyer ("Batman Begins") is writing the script, based on a story he conceived with Nolan.

Plot details are being kept under wraps.

Superman is one of Warners/DC Comics' biggest icons, a major revenue generator for both studios through TV shows like "Smallville," videogames and merchandise.

The studio is hoping for a holiday 2012 release date, otherwise it risks losing the rights to the character.

The last Superman film "Superman Returns," directed by Bryan Singer and starring Brandon Routh as Superman, earned more than $391 million worldwide, but did not receive positive reviews and was considered a disappointment.

Snyder's current 3D film "The Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole," distributed by Warners, has grossed $30 million over two weeks.

He directed the screen adaptations of the graphic novels "300," "The Watchmen," as well as the upcoming "Sucker Punch."