As the two competing Linda Lovelace biopics continue to race toward the finish line, one moves closer to release as production on Lovelace began today.  Variety reports that Hank Azaria, Bobby Cannavale (Win Win), Chris Noth (Sex and the City), and Robert Patrick have all joined the cast of the now in-production indie. Directed by Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman (Howl), the film has Amanda Seyfried set to star as the titular porn star, with Peter Sarsgaard in place as Lovelace’s husband (whom she claims for coerced her into pornography). But that’s not all, as James Franco is also apparently in talks to appear in the film as one Hugh Hefner. Franco was initially eyed to take on Sarsgaard’s part, but the thought of Franco playing Hefner in full force is almost too good to be true.

Franco’s role would be little more than a cameo, as the Hefner sequence simply involves Lovelace and her husband attending a screening of Deep Throat at the Playboy mansion. Hit the jump for more on the project.

The aforementioned actors join previously announced Sharon Stone, Juno Temple, and Wes Bently in what’s shaping up to be one hell of an indie. Azaria will be playing Deep Throat writer-director Jerry Damiano, Cannavale and Noth are set as Deep Throat financiers Butchie Peraino and Anthony Romano who go into business with Lovelace’s husband, and Patrick will play Lovelace’s father. As you’ve no doubt surmised, the plot centers on the production and success of Deep Throat, as well as Lovelace’s tempestuous relationship with her husband.

Hefner isn’t the only celebrity character expected to pop up in the flick, as roles still yet to be cast include Sammy Davis Jr., Gloria Steinem, and Harry Reem. Production on Lovelace began today in Los Angeles.