Washington, Jan 3 (ANI): French actor Mathieu Amalric is all set to be the next Bond villain.

Amalric, who played a paralyzed stroke victim in “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly,” will stand up to Agent 007, Daniel Craig in the 22nd instalment of the James Bond franchise.

Execs from Columbia Pictures and MGM have confirmed that Amalric will be playing one of the main villains in next years Bond 22 alongside Anatole Taubman.

They also revealed that Jeffrey Wright, who played CIA agent Felix Leiter in “Casino Royale,” will reprise his role in the film.

Bond 22 began filming on Jan 2 in London, reports Variety.

Though a month behind schedule, the film’s theatrical release for November 7th is still on track. (ANI)