Eddie Murphy is to play the Riddler in the new Batman movie.

The 47-year-old comic actor is reportedly taking on the villainous role for the latest installment in director Christopher Nolan's interpretation of the comic books, due to be released in 2010.

A film insider said: "Eddie's a fantastic addition. Everyone's excited to see what he does as the Riddler."

The actor's expected involvement in the project is the first clear indication of Christopher's intention to shoot a third Batman movie.

The source continued to Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Chris wasn't sure if he wanted to do another movie but as soon as he decided to, he got the wheels in motion."

Eddie isn't the first actor to be linked to the latest incarnation of the Riddler - a manic super-villain who baffles Batman with his cryptic criminal clues and first appeared in the comics in 1948.

Earlier this year, Johnny Depp was hotly-tipped to have landed the role, previously played by Jim Carrey in 1995 film "Batman Forever".

It has also been claimed British actress Rachel Weisz is in the running for the seductive role of Catwoman.

Resuming their fight against crime in Gotham City are Christian Bale, who portrays Batman, and Sir Michael Caine who plays butler Alfred.

(China Daily/Agencies December 19, 2008)