With Henry Cavill set for Zack Snyder’s Superman, the attention is shifting to the female lead, and Variety is reporting that three actresses are in contention for the role – though it’s not Lois Lane. Alice Eve is mentioned among the actresses. This would be wonderful for her! But keep in mind its just a rumor.

Filming is expected to start this summer for a December, 2012 release.

The Press release:

With Henry Cavill set as the Man of Steel, Warner Bros. now moves on to its female lead, and a short list of contenders is coming together.

Alice Eve, Diane Kruger and Rosamund Pike have emerged as the three thesps being considered for the character, whose identity hasn’t been disclosed — but it’s not Lois Lane.

Early reports had names such as Rachel McAdams and Kristen Stewart as female leads, but sources tell Variety that the studio doesn’t want a name that could overshadow its leading man.

Eve has the most modest resume, but has seen her profile grow in the last year after starring in Paramount’s She’s Out of My League. Besides Superman, Eve was also considered one of the front runners for roles in X-Men: First Class and Captain America: The First Avenger.

Pike has been on Hollywood’s radar since her turn as a Bond girl in Die Another Day and has since had several supporting roles, including An Education and Barney’s Version.

Kruger has had significant leads in both National Treasure pics, Troy and Inglourious Basterds — but this would mark one of the biggest leading roles she has landed.

Studio is also currently putting a search out for its villain as well, but no names have been set in stone.

Zack Snyder is directing from a script by David Goyer with Christopher Nolan producing. Studio is looking to start production this summer with a December 2012 release date.

Source: Variety