Gervais delight at landing Fiennes

Ricky Gervais has managed to snag a Hollywood star for his big-screen directorial debut - award-winning actor Ralph Fiennes has signed on to star in 'Cemetery Junction'.

The comedian has written his first movie with Stephen Merchant - his fellow creator of 'The Office' - which the pair will co-direct.

And Gervais is delighted he has managed to persuade Fiennes to take on a role in the upcoming comedy about a group of 20-somethings working at a bank in the 1970s.

Gervais said: "I bumped into him (Fiennes) at the Toronto Film Festival and told him I had written a part with him in mind. I sent him the script and what do you now? He is an amazing actor and will bring a real weight to the movie. Can't wait."

Filming on 'Cemetery Junction' - which was originally due to be called 'The Men At The Pru' - is scheduled to start later this year.