New information regarding the upcoming 'Black Panther' movie has now come to light, with Ryan Coogler now confirmed to direct the 2018 Marvel flick. It's a coveted honour to be chosen to helm a superhero movie but, after 'Creed', he definitely deserves it.

Ryan CooglerRyan Coogler to direct 'Black Panther'

The movie might be a long way off yet, but we do see the character make his first appearance in the soon to be released 'Captain America: Civil War'. Played by Chadwick Boseman, Black Panther - aka T'Challa - will join the cast as an ally to Iron Man, when the Avengers find themselves divided in their quest for ultimate peace. It's not entirely clear what role he will play in this 'Civil War' plot, but it has been suggested that his agenda isn't entirely aligned with Iron Man or Captain America.

'We are fortunate to have such an esteemed filmmaker join the Marvel family', producer Kevin Feige said in a statement on the Marvel website. 'The talents Ryan showcased in his first two films easily made him our top choice to direct 'Black Panther.' Many fans have waited a long time to see Black Panther in his own film, and with Ryan we know we've found the perfect director to bring T'Challa's story to life.'

More: Watch the trailer for 'Captain America: Civil War'

'Black Panther' marks the third feature film of Ryan Coogler, hot on the heels of his Golden Globe winning boxing epic 'Creed' starring Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone. He'd previously teamed up with Jordan on the film festival success 'Fruitvale Station', which he wrote as well as directed in accordance with the true story of the fate of Oscar Grant III in 2008.

As for Chadwick Boseman, he's best known for his portrayal of James Brown in 'Get On Up' as well as his appearance in sports drama 'Draft Day' alongside Kevin Costner. More upcoming roles for him include bird-headed Egyptian god Thoth in 'Gods Of Egypt' and the titular character in Reginald Hudlin drama 'Marshall'. 

Black Panther, however, is probably his most exciting role yet. King of the fictional African country Wakanda - a highly technologically advanced nation rich in a sound-absorbing mineral called vibranium - he becomes a prominent member of the Avengers and also marries X-Men staple Storm  in a ceremony depicted in the original Civil War comics.

Marvel have a huge plan of exciting upcoming additions to the film franchise. As well as 'Captain America: Civil War' - which will hit cinemas on May 6th 2016 - this year we can also look forward to 'Doctor Strange' starring Benedict Cumberbatch. 2017 will see the return of the Norse God of Thunder in 'Thor: Ragnarok', while 2018 will see the first instalment of 'Avengers: Infinity War' and  'Ant-Man And The Wasp'. 'Captain Marvel' and 'Inhumans' are expected to hit in 2019.

'Black Panther' will be released in cinemas on February 16th 2018.