‘Arthur Christmas’ to Feature Star-Studded UK Cast

(L-R) Jim Broadbent, Bill Nighy

Some of Britain's finest actors are set to spread some holiday cheer in the forthcoming Aardman Animation 3-D film, Arthur Christmas.

According to The Wrap Up, Jim Broadbent and Bill Nighy will star opposite James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie and Imelda Staunton in the Sony Pictures family comedy set for next year.

Directed by Barry Cook and Sarah Smith, Arthur Christmas captures the story of Santa's monumental Christmas Eve trek in delivering millions of presents to children around the globe. We'll get to know Santa, as played by Broadbent, and his large dysfunctional family; McAvoy will star as the enthusiastic title character of who hasn't lost sight of the Christmas spirit, while Staunton will play the lovely Mrs. Santa. Laurie's character is Arthur's too-cool-for-school older brother, Steve, who eyes taking over for his dear old Dad a little too soon. Scottish actress Ashley Jensen will also take on the role of Bryony, a raring to go elf who's in charge of giftwrap.

Best of all: Nighy will portray Santa's ornery 136-year-old father, Grandsanta, who's still bitter about retiring from his old post. This should be positively fantastic, right?

You can catch Nighy alongside Broadbent and Staunton in part one of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows out this month. Arthur Christmas opens nationwide November 23, 2011.