Sequel to the Dark Knight in the Works?

Batman Begins resurrected the dying Batman film franchise. The Dark Knight proved to be one of the most successful movies in history. Now, there is serious speculation into a third movie joining the revamped franchise.

At the everything-superhero-and-sci-fi-related Comic Con 2009, Gary Oldman mentioned that he believed filming for the next Batman movie would begin in 2010. In the time since, Oldman has backed away from his statement, but it brings hope to the fans of the newest Batman movies.

After completing The Dark Knight, and with the unfortunate passing of Heath Ledger, writer and director Christopher Nolan seemed doubtful as to the possibility of doing another Batman movie. Many have worried that, without Nolan at the helm, the franchise would once again begin to deteriorate, much like the previous series did after Tim Burton left following Batman Returns.

There is reason for doubt, of course (Oldman's backpedaling from his claim, for instance), but one has to consider the fact that The Dark Knight brought in massive amounts of money for Warner Brothers. The studio knows it has a hot product and they will forge ahead for sure with an addition to the Batman franchise.

Christopher Nolan is currently working on a sci-fi movie called Inception. This film is being bankrolled by Warner Bros., so it isn't unreasonable to speculate that the studio and Nolan have had at least some preliminary discussion regarding the possibility of a third Batman movie.

It is entirely possible that Christopher's brother Jonathan (who co-wrote The Dark Knight) is working on a preliminary draft for a script, while Nolan is at work on Inception. If the pieces are in place, it isn't unrealistic to think that filming could conceivably begin shooting sometime in late-2010 or early- to mid-2011.

To this point, there is only speculation as to which villains would be featured in the next Batman movie. The Riddler is often mentioned as a viable candidate. Characters like Killer Croc and The Penguin are sure to be ruled out, though, as Nolan has worked to create a realistic feel for his films. Despite the tragic loss of Heath Ledger, one cannot rule out the possibility of The Joker making another appearance. After all, Katie Holmes was replaced by Maggie Gyllenhaal in the role of Rachel Dawes.

In the meantime, fans will need to have their Batman hunger satisfied with DVD's of Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. Those who are interested in video games are sure to enjoy the new Batman: Arkham Asylum video game. Batman: Arkham Asylum has already been met with critical praise and is destined to be a huge hit with consumers.

Details regarding a possible third Nolan-directed Batman movie are sure to unfold. In the meantime, fans of the franchise can hardly wait.