Sources for The Wrap claim that director Sam Mendes is aiming very high with his casting for the villain in the next James Bond movie. They’ve been informed that Mendes’s top choice is Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years A Slave), who was just nominated for an Academy Award, and whose star in Hollywood is the highest its ever been. With his powerhouse performance in 12 Years A Slave, Ejiofor- who’s been working in films since for almost 20 years- finally reached the A List. He would be a big “get” for the Bond franchise.

The report is quick to point out that Ejiofor has not yet entered negotiations, and there’ve been no formal talks. But amongst other actors that have been contacted for the role, they think Mr. Ejiofor is the frontrunner being eyed for the part.

Ejiofor would join Mendes and Daniel Craig, who are set to return for the follow-up to Skyfall– the most financially successful Bond film of all time. Others set to return include will Ralph Fiennes as “M,” Naomie Harris as Moneypenny, and Ben Whishaw as “Q.”

There’s been no word on the plot of the film, which is currently titled Bond 24, but there were whispers last year that we could soon see the return of Blofeld. The character is considered James Bond’s arch-nemesis and, after an issue with the rights to the character was finally resolved- which kept Blofeld out of the loop for a while- it looks like the filmmakers are free to re-introduce him in the movies.

John Logan is writing the next two sequels- which are said to build off of Skyfall, which somewhat repositioned Craig’s Bond.

So what do you think? Is Chiwetel Ejiofor a good fit for the Bond franchise? Think there’s any chance he’ll be the new Blofeld? Think who ever the villain ends up being will be as interesting as Javier Bardem’s “Silva”? Sound off!

SOURCE: The Wrap