Marvel's GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY Taps SUPER Director James Gunn

Along with highly anticipated sequels to their Iron Man, Thor and Captain America film franchises, Marvel Studios is prepping to release the sci-fi actioner Guardians of the Galaxy in theaters August 1st, 2014.

Even the 31st Century needs heroes, and the call has been answered by the Guardians of the Galaxy -- Drax The Destroyer, a human resurrected as a green warrior with the sole purpose of killing Thanos; Groot, a giant tree-man; Star-Lord, a gun-toting half-human/half-alien inter-galactic vigilante; Rocket Raccoon, a genetically engineered animal with a knack for guns and explosives; and Gamora, the last survivor of her species who was saved by Thanos to be his assassin -- a team of superhuman and extraterrestrial adventurers dedicated to the safeguarding of the Milky Way Galaxy from any force that threatens the security or liberty of its various people.

Marvel has entered into negotiations with James Gunn to direct the upcoming film, which follows a 'U.S. pilot who ends up in the middle of a universal conflict in space and goes on the run with futuristic ex-cons who have something everyone wants.'

Gunn recently wrote and directed Super, the critically acclaimed dark and comedic superhero spoof starring Rainn Wilson. He is also known for writing the script for the popular Dawn of the Dead remake. Marvel considered directors Peyton Reed (Bring It On, Yes Man) and duo Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden (Half Nelson ) before offering the deal to Gunn.

In addition to Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain America: The Winter Soldier will be released April 4th, 2014, Thor: The Dark World is scheduled for release November 8th, 2013, and Iron Man 3 will arrive in theaters May 3rd, 2013.