James Holmes -- Strange Behavior in Colorado Court

"Dark Knight" shooter James Holmes appeared in court moments ago ... sporting red-orange hair ... a red jumpsuit ... and a very bizarre demeanor.

Holmes was informed he will be charged with FIRST DEGREE MURDER for killing 12 people in a Colorado movie theater on Friday. The formal charges are expected to be filed soon.

Holmes appeared sedated in court -- constantly opening his eyes widely ... and then appearing to doze off while the judge was speaking.

At one point, he began to blink wildly.

Holmes did not say a word during the hearing.

The judge informed Holmes that he will be kept in custody on a no-bail hold due to the egregious nature of the crimes he's been accused of committing.

Holmes has been forbidden from contacting any of the victims or their families.

Arapahoe County District Attorney Carol Chambers addressed the media outside of the courthouse ... and said prosecutors have NOT decided if they will pursue the death penalty.

Prosecutors also said they do not know if Holmes was on any kind of medication during the hearing.