AceShowbiz -

It's another four years before "Godzilla 2" invades theaters. Warner Bros. and Legendary announced on Thursday, August 14 that a sequel to the May blockbuster will open in theaters on June 8, 2018.

"Godzilla" director Gareth Edwards will return to helm the second installment. His name has risen to the top of the list after the movie delivered a $93.2 million opening and more than $500 million at the worldwide box office.

Edwards will complete the secret "Star Wars" project for Disney and Lucasfilm first before starting the work on "Godzilla 2". Legendary's Thomas Tull said in May, "The plan has always been for Gareth to direct a different film before we started on another Godzilla, but who knew it would a Star Wars installment? We have a great plan in store for Godzilla fans and I am looking forward to seeing Gareth's imprint on the Star Wars universe." The "Star Wars" movie is set for December 16, 2016 release.

After all, WB has a crowded summer schedule in the next few years. "Godzilla 2" is currently the only occupant on the date but the year's summer will spawn big movies with Marvel planning at least two superhero movies, WB-DC releasing a comic book movie and Fox securing a date for a superhero flick.

At the San Diego Comic-Con last month, Legendary said that the "Godzilla" sequel will feature more monsters including Rodan, Mothra and Ghidorah.