MUMBAI: Michael Shannon has been cast as Superman’s nemesis in director Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel.

Shannon, who received an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor for Revolutionary Road for his performance as a mentally-troubled man, has also been seen as a stern federal agent in HBO’s Boardwalk Empire, Warners Bros. announced. 

"Zod is not only one of Superman‘s most formidable enemies, but one of the most significant because he has insights into Superman that others don‘t. Michael is a powerful actor who can project both the intelligence and the malice of the character, making him perfect for the role," Snyder has been quoted as saying.

The developing cast of Man of Steel also includes Amy Adams as Lois Lane and Diane Lane and Kevin Costner as Martha and Jonathan Kent.

The film is being produced by Charles Roven, Emma Thomas, Christopher Nolan and Deborah Snyder. The screenplay is being written by David S. Goyer based on a story by Goyer and Nolan.