Anne Hathaway to play Catwoman, Selina Kyle, in'Dark Knight Rises'; Tom Hardy cast as Bane

Anne Hathawayis pawing her way to the top of the Hollywood food chain, first as the host ofthe Oscars, now as Catwoman in"The Dark Knight Rises."

Director Christopher Nolanhas cast the 28-year-old actress asSelina Kylein his third and final Batman 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,"Nolan said in an official statement released byWarner Bros.

Hathaway will joinChristian Bale, who returns as Batman, and British actorTom Hardy, who Nolan announced is set to play"the man who broke the Bat,"Bane.

According todeadline.com, Hathaway has been vying for the Selina role since November. She was reportedly up againstNatalie Portman,Keira Knightley,Rachel Weisz,Naiomi WattsandBlake Lively.

Catwoman previously brought to life on the big screen byMichelle Pfeiffer(in 1992's"Batman Returns) and, more infamously,Halle Berry(in"Catwoman"in 2004).

"Dark Knight Rises"is set for release on July 20, 2012.

Source