AceShowbiz -

A new director has officially been tapped for the upcoming "World War Z" sequel. Juan Antonio Bayona ("The Orphanage", "The Impossible") is confirmed to take over the helming duty from Marc Forster who directed the first film.

Released this summer, "World War Z" is based on Max Brooks' novel of the same title. Despite the script issues during the filming that led to rewrites and reshoots of at least three pivotal scenes, the apocalyptic movie gained over $540 million worldwide.

The story follows a UN employee named Gerry traveling the world to stop zombie plaque while trying to maintain contact with his family. The final version ends with happy tone; a cure finally being found and Gerry reuniting with his wife and children.

But the original version is far more bleak. Gerry is allegedly struggling to make his way back to his family as his wife is forced to give herself to a cold-hearted army officer, played by "Lost" actor Matthew Fox, in order for her and her kids to survive.

Brad Pitt is expected to reprise his role as the male lead. No writer has been announced for the follow-up story, but Bayona is expected to oversee the screenwriting process.