Peter Segal has come aboard to direct "Shazam!" -- an adaptation of a DC Comics' comic book series featuring Captain Marvel -- for New Line Cinema. The comic series focused on young Billy Batson, who becomes the superhero known as Captain Marvel when he utters the magic word "Shazam!" says The Hollywood Reporter.

The name is an acronym for six gods and heroes of the ancient world as well as their attributes: the wisdom of Solomon, the strength of Hercules, the stamina of Aries, the power of Zeus, the courage of Achilles and the speed of Mercury.

Writers on the long-gestating project include William Goldman and Bryan Goluboff. Segal also will produce along with Michael Ewing via their Callahan Filmworks banner.