After a brutal battle between French actresses whose names Americans do not know, the only French actress whose name Americans do know, Audrey Tautou, has been chose to play Tom Hanks partner in the film version of The Da Vinci Code. This means that with last week’s addition of Jean Reno to the film, 2 of the 3 French actors whose names Americans know have been cast on the film. No word on whether director Ron Howard is considering Gerard Depardieu for a role. He’s probably holding out for a Green Card 2.

According to the French newspaper “Le Parisien”, the publication that first broke the Tautou casting news, Audrey will play Sophie Nevou. She’s an investigator who helps Tom Hanks investigate… things… written by Da Vinci… and also possibly by God.

Look for The Da Vinci Code in theaters May 2006.

Thanks to Matt S. for the tip!