Marvel’s “Guardians Of The Galaxy” Officially Has A Director

For a while it’s been rumored that James Gunn, the eccentric filmmaker behind Super and Slither, has been on Marvel’s shortlist to helm Guardians of the Galaxy, the adaptation of the obscure Marvel series that will serve to introduce the cosmic threats that will rear their heads from time to time and fight against the Avengers.

The Guardians will consist of Groot, Gamorra, Rocket Raccoon, Star-Lord, and Drax the Destroyer. Thanos, the purple being that featured in the Avengers end credits, will be the main baddie.

Today, Gunn confirmed his involvement with the franchise via Twitter:

The director revealed more on his Facebook page:

For a month or so there’s been a lot of Internet speculation about my involvement with Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. Until now I haven’t said anything, because I’m trying to be less expulsive about this project than I am about the rest of my life. But last night I got the go-ahead from Kevin Feige to let you all know that, yes, indeed, I am rewriting and directing Guardians of the Galaxy. As a lifelong lover of Marvel comics, space epics, AND raccoons, this is the movie I’ve been waiting to make since I was nine years old. Kevin [Feige], Joss [Whedon], and all the folks at Marvel have been amazing collaborators so far, and we’re committed to bringing you something majestic, beautiful, and unique. I am incredibly excited. I am also incredibly grateful to the fans and the press for all their words of encouragement and support regarding my involvement with this project since the news first leaked. Thanks – you have, honestly, touched and overwhelmed me. And that’s it for now. Other than the occasional photos of my dog and cat here on Facebook, I’ll talk to you again in August 2014 when Guardians is released! 

Guardians of the Galaxy hits theaters on August 1st, 2014.