The film adaptation of Marvel's Doctor Strange is to be directed by Scott Derrickson.

The Sinister director revealed that he has signed on for the superhero film on Twitter.

Stephen Vincent Strange, is a former neurosurgeon who serves as the Sorcerer Supreme - the primary protector of Earth against magical and mystical threats.

The character was created by the Spider-Man team of Stan Lee and Steve Ditko in 1963's Strange Tales #110, before going on to feature in several self-titled series as well as Marvel video games, an animated TV series and his own direct-to-DVD film.

The actor who will play the title character is yet to be cast, but a decision is expected to be made in the coming weeks.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been rumoured for the role, as has Justin Theroux.

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige will produce the film, with Lee, Louis D'Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Alan Fine and Stephen Broussard serving as executive producers.

Doctor Strange is expected to be released on either July 8, 2016 and on May 5, 2017 - two dates that Marvel has earmarked for unnamed films.