Batman is heading into a sequel, this time titled "The Dark Knight," and he will face-off against the Joker.

Christian Bale will reprise his role as Bruce Wayne/Batman and Christopher Nolan is returning to the directing chair. Heath Ledger has signed on to play the sardonic and murderous villain the Joker, immortalized by Jack Nicholson in Tim Burton's 1989 "Batman."

The script will be written by Nolan's brother, Jonathan, from a story by Christopher Nolan and David Goyer. Christopher Nolan and Goyer co-wrote last year's "Batman Begins."

The film will be produced by Emma Thomas, Charles Roven and Christopher Nolan.

An early 2007 start date is being eyed.

Bale and Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" was a critical and commercial hit, and relaunched the franchise. "Knight" will mark the third time the duo are teaming up, after this fall's "The Prestige," which will be released by Disney. Bale is repped by Endeavor, while Christopher Nolan is repped by CAA.

Ledger, also repped by CAA, was nominated for a best actor Academy Award for his role in "Brokeback Mountain" and was last seen in "Casanova."