'GOTG' Vol. 2 Cast PHOTO: Kurt Russell Joins Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, James Gunn Sequel!

Marvel Studios has released the first teaser image from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2. Not only do we see Dave Bautista and Chris Pratt in the photo, Kurt Russell is joining the cast of writer/director James Gunn's highly anticipated sequel.

As we previously mentioned, the first volume follows a group of wanted space criminals, led by Star-Lord (Pratt), as they suddenly end up at the same intergalactic prison. After working on their own for so long, they must now team-up together to stop the maniacal super villain, Ronan the Accuser (Lee Pace). With an all-powerful gem at his disposal, this ragtag team must defeat him before he ends up destroying the galaxy.

On this official Twitter account, the Slither director released the first teaser image online, along with the caption, "Official Photography on Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 has begun. You're very welcome."

The Scooby-Doo screenwriter adds, "And yes Kurt Russell has joined the #GotGVol2 cast, as have @PomKlementieff, Elizabeth Debicki, and @SullyActsUp. They are all amazing."

Gunn continues, "@PomKlementieff is playing Mantis. As for the rest, you'll have to wait."

Official Photography on Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 has begun. You're very welcome. pic.twitter.com/741upZ21g7

— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) February 17, 2016

According to Marvel's official site, the sequel continues with the team's space opera adventures. In the script written and directed by Gunn, the group of anti-hero will unravel the mystery behind Peter Quill's true parentage. Principal photography has commenced shooting at Atlanta, Georgia's Pinewood Studios. New cast members include Elizabeth Debicki (The Great Gatsby), Chris Sullivan (The Knick).

As IGN mentions, The Hateful 8 actor is expected to play the long-lost father of Peter Quill, who abandoned his mother before he was born. Star-Lord's father is heard of in dialogue but never seen. The father/son dynamic will be a focal point in the new flick.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 is scheduled for a May 5, 2017 release.

Readers, what do you think of the photo and new cast?