It looks like J.J. Abrams may have his Chekov. According to today's Hollywood Reporter, Russian-born Anton Yelchin is in negotiations to be the latest actor to join the newly-cast Zachary Quinto (who will play Spock) in the upcoming "Star Trek" movie.

The 18-year-old Yelchin already has an impressive resumé, having appeared in numerous TV shows including Taken, ER, Judging Amy, The Practice and Curb Your Enthusiasm. Anton has also appeared in several movies, including "Alpha Dog" and "House of D."

"Pavel Chekov," of course, was originated by Walter Koenig in the second season of the Original Series. Even though the proud Russian was a late-comer to the bridge crew, he was apparently somewhere on the Enterprise in Season One, because as we know from "Star Trek II," Khan "never forgets a face."

Also of note, per Daily Variety, is a brief mention that J.J. will start directing the film on November 5, 2007. This item is referenced in a story about Abrams and his Bad Robot production company and their five-year deal with Paramount.

The "Star Trek" film, the 11th in the franchise but the first under a totally new production team, is slated for release Christmas Day 2008. Last month at Comic-Con, Abrams introduced Quinto as the new "young Spock," and also announced that Leonard Nimoy would be in the film playing the older Spock. These are the only official casting announcements so far.