Some people were a little bummed when they learned that Johnny Depp actually wasn't going to be in Wes Anderson's "The Grand Budapest Hotel." Some folks were relieved. But we think everyone will agree that this next bit of casting is pretty damn awesome.
Ralph Fiennes is in talks to join the growing cast of actors checking into Anderson's next film. As per usual, not much is known about the Euro-set movie, except that it will involve a supporting character who is a psychic of some kind… and also, a concierge. That's the role Fiennes is taking, playing the "perfectly composed" M. Gustave. And yeah, that sounds about perfect. He joins Bill Murray and Jude Law with Edward Norton, Jeff Goldblum, Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe and Owen Wilson among those rumored/expected to take part as well. But where's Angela Lansbury? Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts with her stage performance of "Driving Miss Daisy" have forced her out of the movie. Bummer.
It's a pretty nifty piece of casting, and it will be great to see Fiennes step away from his more serious roles for something presumably a bit lighter. Production will likely begin soon. [Variety/THR]