J.J. Abrams has filled another position for the upcoming Star Trek XI film he's working on. Russian-born actor Anton Yelchin (Alpha Dog) will play Pavel Chekov in the film. In the original Star Trek television series, Chekov was the navigator and tactical officer on the Enterprise; in later series he was promoted to lieutenant and chief of security. He joins previously announced cast-mates Leonard Nimoy and Zachary Quinto, who have been cast as old and young Spock.

Further casting is still underway in New York and London, with filming due to begin this November 5.

Roles still up for grabs include Kirk, McCoy, Uhura, Sulu, Scotty, an unspecified villain, and a Federation captain (rumored to possibly be Tom Cruise as Christopher Pike). Word is that Abrams wants relative unknowns for the first 5 roles, and big names for the last two. The fim is scheduled to hit theaters next Christmas.