The A-holes are back in a big way saving the universe, dancing to their own beat all while trying their very best not to kill one another in the latest Marvel movie release, The Guardians of the The Galaxy Vol.2.
This installment of the Guardians not only does the original movie justice, but delivers a grand slam home run that makes you crave more even after the fifth after-credits scene rolls. (Yes! There are five fun and tantalizing credit scenes that will not only entertain the average movie patron, but will thrill and excite those of us who love the Marvel movies and comics.)
The film is set four months after the events of its predecessor, and is separate from the other interconnected Marvel movies. This allows viewers to jump right in and enjoy the film without having to know too much background. The Guardians find themselves employed by a ruling race called the Sovereign, to protect their precious batteries (yes, batteries) from a rather large and ferocious intergalactic alien that feeds on them. Things quickly go awry when Rocket (a smartass raccoon voiced by Bradley Cooper) steals them after the job is done, incurring the wrath of the Sovereign who begin to hunt the Guardians for revenge. Escaping from the Sovereign, the Guardians run into Peter Quill’s long-lost father and his parentage and purpose are revealed to him.
Director James Gunn immerses us into a complex universe with a myriad of exotic alien locations and inhabitants that we can all relate to and connect with on a personal level. The movie is visually stunning, and flows beautifully, weaving a perfect mix of action, humour, and characterization that draws us in and doesn’t let go. Like the first film, the retro soundtrack plays heavily into the film, but each song was meticulously selected for specific scenes. This not only adds to the richness of the film but the tracks selected are perfect to rock out to on the way home after the show.
The film’s real strength lies with the characters and their development throughout the film. Each character is perfect in their interactions with one another, and all of them have a chance to shine and grow. They will all make you laugh, cheer, and cry right from the opening moments, and it doesn’t let you go even after the credits. You can tell the cast loves these characters, as their chemistry is enthralling, and Gunn delivers with snappy and heartfelt writing. Looking back in hindsight, I can see why Vin Diesel, the voice of Groot, was taken aback when he first read the script.
This movie kicks the summer release season into high gear early this year and sets the bar really high with its near perfect delivery and execution. For the comic crowd, this film should be right up your alley. For the rest, Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2 is well worth a visit to the big screen.
