Charlize Theron in The Dark NIght Rises

Considering the information lock-down that Warner Bros. and director Christopher Nolan are likely installing for The Dark Knight Rises, their upcoming sequel to The Dark Knight, fans will likely have to hear many rumors before any true details are presented (a "Marion Cotillard to play Catwoman or Talia Al Ghul" rumor already floated around in August). The latest rumor claims that Charlize Theron, Vera Farmiga, and The Burning Plain actress Kacie Thomas are being sought for two female lead roles in the highly-anticipated sequel. While the rumor remains unsubstantiated, the roles the actresses are rumored for definitely draw interest.

According to the report, Theron is being sought for the role of Sarah Essen, a Gotham detective that strikes up an affair with then-Lieutenant Gordon in Frank Miller's 1987 Year One arc of the Batman comic book. Gary Oldman getting a love interest? We admit, it's intriguing.

Meanwhile, Farmiga and Thomas are reportedly up for the role of Julie Madison, who appeared in the comic books as Bruce Wayne's fiancee and earliest love interest. Again, intriguing.

One thing is for sure: with the character of Rachel Dawes (played by Maggie Gyllenhaal in The Dark Knight) no longer a part of the series, there's currently no love interest for Christian Bale. It's likely that Nolan, and his screenwriting brother Jonathan, will likely find some kind of female lead for Bale to work with. However, until something concrete is announced, expect more speculation until The Dark Knight Rises opens on July 20, 2012.