Slither and Super director, James Gunn, has been rumored as a top choice for Marvel Studios’ upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy film adaptation, and today he posted on his facebook page that he has officially been hired to rewrite and direct the film. Joss Whedon called Gunn’s take on the superhero team, “twisted”. The film is set to go into production in the next few months, and is a set for a release date of August 1st, 2014. More information on Gunn below.

The filmmaker posted the following 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, Joss, 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!”