By Borys Kit

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Korean-born actor John Cho of "Harold & Kumar" fame has been cast as Sulu in the new "Star Trek" feature, playing a role immortalized by Japanese-American actor George Takei.

Additionally, Briton Simon Pegg ("Shaun of the Dead") has boarded the Paramount project as Scotty, the ship's Scottish chief engineer.

The "Trek" casting deals appear to be closing at warp speed this week, with Eric Bana signing on Wednesday to play the movie's villain, Nero.

Already on board are Zoe Saldana as Uhura and Anton Yelchin as a young Chekov, the Russian-born navigator, as well as Zachary Quinto as a young Spock. Leonard Nimoy, who originated the role of Spock, is on board as well. Chris Pine is in talks to play the young Kirk.

Plot details are begin kept under wraps, but it is understood that the movie chronicles the early days of the Enterprise crew. The lead roles remaining to be cast are Christopher Pike, the first captain of the Enterprise, and Kirk's parents.

J.J. Abrams ("Mission: Impossible 3") is directing. The movie is expected to shoot from November to March.

Lt. Hikaru Sulu, known for his love of fencing, always was seen on deck piloting the ship next to Chekov. Takei played the character in the 1960s TV series and the 1980s movies. Cho starred as Harold in the cult hit "Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle." He is reprising the role for the sequel.

Montgomery "Scotty" Scott was the ship's third-in-command and was known for his problem-solving abilities in plot-critical situations. The role was originated by James Doohan, who died in 2005.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
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