If there was ever an ambitious cast for an upcoming project, it would easily be Wes Anderson's follow-up to Moonrise Kingdom with The Grand Budapest Hotel. Set to kick off just as the New Year returns, previously aimed cast member Johnny Depp has already declared he is too busy while a number of returning veterans under Anderson's direction have already pledged their own loyalty. Now, it seems we have a very interesting addition as one of James Bond's new co-stars in Skyfall has checked in as one accomplished actress has checked out in favor of a theater commitment.

Variety reports that Ralph Fiennes (Harry Potter series) has now entered talk to be the latest actor to join The Grand Budapest Hotel. With the casting report, we also get the first bit of character details as its revealed that he'll play somewhat of an important role as "M. Gustave, who serves as the hotel's perfectly composed concierge".

If successful, Fiennes joins the previously committed Jude Law, Bill Murray, Edward Norton and Owen Wilson. There is still no word, however, on fellow previously mentioned actors Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum and Adrien Brody.

But with the cast additions, there is some sad news as well. THR reports that Angela Lansbury has now decided to drop out of her small role in order to focus on the stage adaptation of Driving Miss Daisy. It is unclear exactly who will be gaining her role in the process, or if the minuscule part will just be omitted.

Production kicks off in January, with a release date hopeful for late next year.