Michael Shannon (“Boardwalk Empire”) has been chosen by director Zack Snyder for the role of General Zod in “Superman: Man of Steel”.

The Oscar nominated (“Revolutionary Road”) actor will try and fill the shoes so aptly worn by the great Terrance Stamp. Stamp starred as Zod in two Superman films, one in 1978 and again in 1980. Stamp also took up the mantle worn by Marlon Brando in the 70’s films by portraying Kal-El’s father Jor-El for the TV series “Smallville”.

“Superman: Man of Steel” stars Henry Cavill (“The Tudors”) and Amy Adams (“Julie and Julia”) as Superman/Clark Kent and Lois Lane. DC Comics/Warner brought out the big guns with Academy Award winners Kevin Costner and Diane Lane as Clark’s adopted parents Jonathan and Martha Kent.

Many fans of the Superman franchise were wary of which actor might be chosen for such an important role as The Man of Steel’s nemesis for this highly anticipated film. Next to Lex Luthor, Zod is the most favored villain in the SuperVerse. However, Snyder is convinced that his choice will meet fans expectations. “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 said after the studio released the news.

Also attached to the production side of the project are Batman’s Christopher Nolan and Deborah Snyder as producers of the film, with David S. Goyer (“Blade”) writing the screenplay. With that kind of talent onboard there is some real hope that Superman will finally get the kind of film treatment that has been lacking in more recent works.