Jesse Eisenberg cast as Lex Luthor in Superman/Batman film

Jesse Eisenberg has been cast as the villainous Lex Luthor in the upcoming Superman-Batman film, Warner Bros. announced Friday.

The actor ("The Social Network," "Now You See Me") will also be joined in the Zack Snyder-directed sequel by Jeremy Irons ("The Borgias"), who will play Alfred.

"Lex Luthor is often considered the most notorious of Superman's rivals, his unsavory reputation preceding him since 1940," Snyder said in the announcement. "What's great about Lex is that he exists beyond the confines of the stereotypical nefarious villain. He's a complicated and sophisticated character whose intellect, wealth and prominence position him as one of the few mortals able to challenge the incredible might of Superman. Having Jesse in the role allows us to explore that interesting dynamic, and also take the character in some new and unexpected directions."

He added, "As everyone knows, Alfred is Bruce Wayne's most trusted friend, ally and mentor, a noble guardian and father figure. He is an absolutely critical element in the intricate infrastructure that allows Bruce Wayne to transform himself into Batman. It is an honor to have such an amazingly seasoned and gifted actor as Jeremy taking on the important role of the man who mentors and guides the guarded and nearly impervious facade that encapsulates Bruce Wayne."

Henry Cavill will reprise his role as Clark Kent/Superman from last summer's "Man of Steel," reuniting with co-stars Amy Adams, Lawrence Fishburne and Diane Lane. Ben Affleck will take on the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman, and actress Gal Gadot will play Wonder Woman/Diana Prince.

The currently untitled project is set to open on May 6, 2016.

Tell us: What do you think of Eisenberg and Irons' casting?