Last month, news broke of a short list of five actors in contention for the leading role of Peter Quill (aka Star-Lord) in James Gunn's upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy. Today, Variety offers an update that claims the list has shrunk to two names: Jim Sturgess (Cloud Atlas) and Zachary Levi ("Chuck").

Levi, who is already set to appear in the Marvel cinematic universe as Fandral in the upcoming Thor: The Dark World, did not appear on the original short list.

Quite arguably Marvel Studios' most offbeat property to date, Guardians of the Galaxy's roster is also said to include Drax the Destroyer, Groot, Rocket Racoon and Gamora. Check back for casting details on those roles as they emerge.

Guardians of the Galaxy is set for a release on August 1, 2014.

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