While watching Steven Spielberg’s Empire of the Sun back in 1987, I was mesmerized by the talented child actor playing James Graham. But never in my wildest dreams did I imagine he would grow up to be Batman. When Christian Bale was cast as the new caped crusader in Batman Begins, it took me completely by surprise.

Still, when you think about it, this casting decision makes sense. Bale’s adult performances include star-making turns in American Psycho and Equilibrium, and his charismatic physical appearance enhances his Batman appeal. Of the six previous actors playing Bruce Wayne/Batman, only Adam West was tall enough to match the character as depicted in the comic books. Bale -- at 6’ 2” -- will be the second.

Because Bale has training in martial arts and dance, I think he’ll ace those Batman action scenes. If you don’t believe me, take a look at his dynamic moves in Equilibrium. As I said in my review of that riveting film, “Eat your heart out, Keanu.”

Everything I’ve read so far concerning Batman Begins piques my curiosity about this upcoming movie. I’m eager to learn the origins of the Batman legend and to see its many intriguing characters come to life on the big screen. Just look at this cast: Michael Caine, Liam Neeson, Morgan Freeman, Katie Holmes, Gary Oldman, Ken Watanabe, Rutger Hauer and Tom Wilkinson.    

My only worry involves Cillian Murphy, who portrays Batman’s nemesis, The Scarecrow. Will this young Irish actor be able to project the evil necessary for this key role? I’ve seen him in one movie, Girl with the Pearl Earring, but not many clues about his “villainy quotient” emerge in that performance. Because villains are so important to the success of Batman films, I hope Murphy delivers in this one.    

I’m counting on director Christopher Nolan (Memento) to bring out the best in all his actors. And I’m trusting screenwriter David S. Goyer (Dark City) to give us a compelling script that will enlighten us about how and why Bruce Wayne became Batman. Bob Kane, who created this popular comic book hero way back in 1939, once said he imagined the character as a combination of Zorro, the Shadow and Dracula. There’s a lot to work with here, guys. Please don’t disappoint us.    

(Batman Begins, a Warner Bros. release opens wide on June 15, 2005. For additional information, visit the movie’s official site.)