The production company behind the film, which will star Atonement actress Keira Knightley, are looking for extras and will be holding an open audition in Fakenham.

Second assistant director Nick Shuttleworth said Holkham Hall has just the right look for the 18th century drama and will stand in to look like a number of the homes around the country owned by the film's central character, aristocrat Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire and her husband.

Mr Shuttleworth said he is looking to build up a database of people to call upon as extras and if chosen those people will get a good glimpse of the stars and internal workings of movie production.

He added: "To be honest we are looking for anyone who is enthusiastic. We are just looking for people who want to get involved, you don't have to have any specific skills.

"If you are willing to spend a couple of days with us getting dressed up in fantastic costumes we want to hear from you."

Filming will take place at Holkham Hall between Sunday, October 28, and Wednesday, November 7, and extras are likely to be required for two or three days each. Those selected will be paid £70 a day as well as £15 for a costume fitting.

Open auditions will take place at Fakenham Methodist Church Hall, 9am to 5pm, on Saturday, October 6.

Hall bookings secretary Mrs Mary Playford (72) said she didn't know she was dealing with a Hollywood production company.

She said: "They wanted the big hall to begin with but I told them they couldn't have it because we will be preparing for the harvest lunch – I didn't realise it was for anything like this!

"I hope they find the premises to their satisfaction."

Anyone who cannot make the auditions can still take their chance to be considered for a role by emailing duchess norfolk@gmail.com for an application pack.