Ralph Fiennes is in talks to star in director Mike Newell's new adaptation of Great Expectations. The actor is circling the role of the mysterious Magwitch. The actor is only in early talks at the moment, since there are some scheduling issues to be worked out. Ralph Fiennes is starring in a new stage version of The Tempest, which opens in late August, which is right around the time Mike Newell wants to start production.

We reported last week that Helena Bonham Carter and Jeremy Irvine were in talks to star in Great Expectations. Jeremy Irvine has finalized his deal and, although Helena Bonham Carter is still in talks to join the cast, it is believed she will. Helena Bonham Carter will play Miss Havisham while Jeremy Irvine is locked in to play Pip.

Mike Newell will direct Great Expectations from a screenplay by Rowan Joffe, which is adapted from the classic Charles Dickens novel. Production is expected to start in late August, with shooting to take place in and around London.

We also reported in February that Ralph Fiennes is circling an unknown role in James Bond 23. The actor is still in negotiations to join the Sam Mendes-directed 007 movie.