The Dark Knight Rises: Tom Hardy Talks Making ‘Big Choices’ For Villain Bane

Stepping into the “The Dark Knight Rises” as Batman’s latest nemesis Bane was a bit daunting for Tom Hardy, but with director Christopher Nolan’s support and some “big choices,” the actor immersed himself in the role of the villain.

“I always love playing a bad guy because you get to say what you want, do what you want, full stop,” Tom told Access Hollywood at the film’s NYC premiere on Monday night, of the character, an almost unstoppable juggernaut known in the comic books for breaking Batman’s back. “Whereas as a lead, you have to do as you’re told, which is boring.”

Tom admitted taking over the Batman foe mantle – Heath Ledger’s Joker last came head to head with the caped crusader – was intimidating.

“I felt pressure, I feel pressure with any drama that I do. But I need to do my best. But I’ve worked with Chris before on ‘Inception’ and so I know that he creates a really intimate environment where I feel safe,” he told Access.

(*possible SPOILER!*)

Nolan previously told Access that he won’t make any future Batman movies, but the 34-year-old British actor told Access he would be game to return to Gotham.

“They’d just have to call me up,” he told Access.

“The Dark Knight Rises” hits theaters on July 20.

— Jesse Spero