Batman is to make an appearance in the 'Suicide Squad' movie.

Hollywood star Ben Affleck is set to appear as a shadowy background figure in the eagerly-awaited new movie, which will also star Will Smith and Margot Robbie, both of whom performed in the film 'Focus'.

The Latino Review blog claims Batman will feature as ''some sort of big boogeyman'' in the Warner Bros/DC Comics film.

Despite boasting an impressive cast, which also includes Jared Leto, details of the comic-inspired movie remain a closely-guarded secret.

In fact, Will Smith suggested he'd be forced to ''kill'' anyone who learnt details of the film.

Asked whether he could speak about 'Suicide Squad', Will said: ''No sir, I'd have to kill you. It's top secret but it's really good, though. It's great stuff, fantastic. I'm already in shape for it, I'm already training.''

Meanwhile, Jared Leto recently said he needs to bulk up to play the Joker in the forthcoming 'Suicide Squad' film, but the actor - who is vegan, meaning he doesn't consume animal products - is finding it hard to gain weight.

He said: ''I'm trying to gain a lot of weight. It means I have to eat every couple of hours -- and I'm terrible at eating a lot.''