At long last, it looks as though we may have our first real bit of casting news for the next James Bond film, currently still being referred to as simply Bond 24. We’ve known for a while now that Daniel Craig will be returning, along with Ralph Fiennes, Ben Whishaw and Naomie Harris. No surprises there. But there has been plenty of speculation surrounding the casting of the next Bond girl(s) and the film’s primary villain. Last year, we were hearing rumours that Penelope Cruz was in talks to star in the film, potentially making her (gasp!) the oldest Bond girl ever. More recently, there was a report that Rihanna had been approached for a role, although it was said to be more of a cameo than anything. Now this week it looks as though Blue is the Warmest Color star Lea Seydoux has landed a role in the film.

According to The Daily Mail, French actress Lea Seydoux has signed on to play the “femme fatale” in the next James Bond movie. The movie starts production is six weeks, but before then she will submit to a series of costume, make-up and camera tests in order to determine her “look”. In addition to starring in the Cannes hit Blue Is the Warmest Color, Seydoux also recently appeared in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol,Inglorious Basterds and The Grand Budapest Hotel.

As for the film’s villain, Variety previously reported that Chiwetel Ejiofor was the top choice for the role, although nothing has been confirmed as of yet. We also heard that the villain might belong to an organization of some sort, possibly even SPECTRE as previously hinted. How do you feel about this initial casting news? Are you psyched for Bond 24?