James Gunn has confirmed that he will direct Marvel’s upcoming film, Guardians of the Galaxy. Gunn will also be rewriting the script, a smart move considering The Avengers was both written and directed by Joss Whedon, a formula Marvel looks to replicate.
The fact that we are even getting a Guardians of the Galaxy film is a bit of a shock. Before Marvel announced the film many assumed that a more well-known hero like; Iron Fist, Dr. Strange or Black Panther would be getting a film adaptation first. Prior to the announcement of the film, few other than hardcore comic book fans had ever even heard of the Guardians of the Galaxy, a team which features an assortment of strange characters that include; Drax the Destroyer, Groot and Rocket Raccoon.
After the phenomenal success of The Avengers it makes sense that Marvel would want to make another “team movie” while we wait for an Avengers sequel, and with the rights to X-Men at Fox. Of course, any movie that features a raccoon with an affinity for heavy weaponry could be a disaster in the wrong hands, which is why many are excited for Gunn’s involvement. His indie film Super is a good indicator that he can defiantly handle bizarre and quirky superheroes.
Here’s the message he posted on Facebook:
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!
