Mad Max 4 to Feature Charlize Theron & Tom Hardy?

If we're to believe the folks over the E! Online, there's a solid chance that George Miller is going foward with making Mad Max 4. E! claims that "multiple sources" have told them that George Miller is looking to cast Charlize Theron as the lead female in the upcoming film. Since Mel Gibson won't be returning as Mad Max himself, E! also says that Miller is looking to cast British actor Tom Hardy ("Bronson," "RocknRolla") in the lead role opposite Theron.

The decision to go without Gibson will be a downer for some, but just look what adding Christian Bale did for the Batman reboot. Hardy is not well known--that's on his side. Nobody wants to go into this movie comparing a name actor with someone of Gibson's stature. Better to bring in a fresh face, change up the franchise, and give us something new.

Trouble is, E! notes that nothing is firm: "The studio has yet to sign off on Miller's choices, and no formal offers have been made," which means that it's all still in flux.

So, stay tuned...