Deep, mysterious and extremely private, there's a striking similarity to his brooding batty alter ego. Just don't be surprised to find out that's all an act. After making his mark as The Dark Knight, what's next for Christian Bale?

There's an old saying that goes: it takes years to become an overnight sensation. At the ripe age of thirteen, Christian received positive reviews for Empire of the Sun. He's been pulling out critical acclaimed performances ever since.

The critics and fans alike have watched him transform into a variety of characters over the years. For the Welsh-born English actor, it's not just a mastery of many accents, but a physical transformation as well. He shocked audiences with his emaciated image in The Machinist, fully committing to his craft in body and spirit.

But for all his brilliant performances, he became a household name with Batman Begins. His turn as the iconic character turned the actor's actor into a big Hollywood star.

The challenge for such a respected star is the ability to toggle between big budget projects and independent projects.

Next? In taking on his next three major movies, Christian has perhaps found the perfect mix to perpetuate his brilliant career.

Killing Pablo: Based on the true story of Colombian gangster Pablo Escobar. No, he's not playing a drug lord. He's bringing down the bad guy as Major Steve Jacoby.

Terminator Salvation: Blowing up the box office with another franchise sequel, Bale will star as our future savoir from the evil killing machines.

Public Enemies: with an impressive cast that includes the likes of Johnny Depp, Channing Tatum, Billy Crudup, Stephen Dorff, Leelee Sobieski and Giovanni Ribisi, this classic gangster flim noir follows the feds as they try to take down notorious gangsters John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson and Pretty Boy Floyd during the infamous crime wave in the 1930s.

Christian's future is so bright, he has to wear shades.

Word.
-Wes