Rumors continue to fly about who could be in the upcoming movie adaptation of the erotic novel mega-hit 'Fifty Shades of Grey.'

Many big names have already been linked to the project, including Henry Cavill, Emma Watson, Ian Somerhalder, and Jake Gyllenhaal. Add as a frontrunner to that list Stephen Amell, star of the television show 'Arrow.'

Amell has confirmed that he has been in talks about starring as the main role in the upcoming movie, Christian Grey. As far as the particulars of what was said, he's staying rather aloof, but he was able to give a few details for fans desperate to latch onto any news they can find on the literary-sensation-turned-future-movie-sensation.

"I get questions about Christian Grey all the time. That project is a long way off. I know this, because I had a meeting about it. Long way off. I mean, not that long, but not close. I wouldn't call it long, but I wouldn't call it close," said Amell in a recent video.

The blogosphere has been abuzz lately with rumors that Emma Watson had been signed on to play the female lead as Ana Steele, but she has since denied those claims.

James Franco has also been on the short-list of names thrown around for the lead role. When asked about his thoughts on the film adaptation for 'Fifty Shades' he was quick to reply:

"It sounds interesting. I heard Gus might direct it. If he directed it, I'd do it."

Franco was referring to Gus Van Sant, the mind behind movies such as 'My Own Private Idaho,' 'Drugstore Cowboy,' and 'Good Will Hunting.' He just finished directing 'Promised Land' with the Focus Features production company. They are the same company that will be producing 'Fifty Shades,' thus adding more fuel to the fire.

The novel 'Fifty Shades of Grey' first burst onto the scene due in large part to its raunchy premise. The book, written by E.L. James, is the first in a trilogy that tracks the deepening relationship between college graduate Anastasia Steele and young business tycoon Christian Grey. It's memorable depictions of bondage and sadomasochism are one of the primary reasons for the novel's meteoric rise.