Hathaway, Knightley and Biel compete for Batman roles

Anne Hathaway, Keira Knightley and Jessica Biel will fight it out to star as Christian Bale's leading ladies in Christopher Nolan's forthcoming Batman film.

The three Hollywood beauties are expected to complete screen tests for The Dark Knight Rises by the end of the month.

It is not clear which roles the actresses will audition for, although Nolan is looking to cast a female villain and a love interest, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Acting newcomers Kate Mara and Charlotte Riley are also in consideration, while British Bond girl Gemma Arterton has also been linked to the project.

Production is due to begin on The Dark Knight Rises in May in London and Los Angeles.
It will be Nolan and Bale's third collaboration in the Batman franchise.