Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 movie review

As the Marvel Cinematic Universe bolsters and grows, Guardians Of The Galaxy: Volume 3 is next up to bat. Expectations are high for many fans, as James Gunn, writer and director of the first two Guardians Of The Galaxy, returns to deliver the third, and apparent final, installment of the successful series. With the same brain at the helm of the script and camera, a significant, cohesive feel accompanies the film.

Things kick off with the pedal to the floor, racing into high action, where the Guardians’ furry mercenary member, Rocket, (voiced by Bradley Cooper) is captured by The High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji) to be used in his “sacred mission”. Stakes are high. Things are personal. Quill (Chris Pratt) and crew risk it all to rescue their friend.

We’ve seen some MCU franchises fail to match their debut picture (Iron Man), while others improved with each film (Captain America, The Avengers), garnering appreciation from even the less enthusiastic critics. Guardians of The Galaxy has turned Chris Pratt from tv-sitcom silly man to Hollywood leading man, Dave Bautista from WWE Superstar to blockbuster actor, and Oscar-nominated Bradley Cooper’s voice to a snarky, racoon-pilot.  

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Avengers: Endagame, visual effects of Weta Digital

The science fiction of Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3

Gunn brings a refreshing visual element to the film. Think art-deco meets Sci-Fi. And, maybe it’s because, while being a comic-book movie, (I know some quiver at the term) it draws from Sci-Fi themes, providing more room to stretch when it comes to set design, costume, and makeup. Avoiding blueprints of drab and metallic settings in most movies set out in the galaxy, Guardians 3 distinguishes itself through the director’s use of bright and bold colors, sharp contrasts, and psychedelic tones. Our heroes’ new ship is even called The Bowie.

Perhaps better than all of the MCU, this franchise easily weaves quick-humor with the action and heroics. Part three doesn’t stray from the path. Separating this picture from its peers, rather than arcing the story over “saving the day”, it centers around more relatable themes, like friendship, loyalty, and love. Zoe Saldana returns as Gamora, after being brought back, post-Thanos finger-snap, with different memory that doesn’t include her relationship with Quill.

Our menacing villain, The High Evolutionary, draws parallels with another less cut and dry bad guy, Thanos. Both are ideologically driven by what they perceive as the only way to help existence, a narcissistic proposal to play creator.

Drop in energy of Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3

Opening on such an intense accent may arrest viewers’ attention, but sets the tenor high for what’s to come. As the films explores deeper character and plot development, it’s meter draws back, loosing up on your interest. Even with climatic scenes, a drop in energy is notable.

One dynamic that must be complimented is James Gunn’s excellent use of music in the movie. While heightening the overall richness, it sparks feels of 90’s movies supported by memorable soundtracks.

Marvel and Disney have an understandable penchant for milking the success of each film and franchise turning out picture after picture, riding the wave all the way in to shore. It’s hard not to wonder if we will see more of our intergalactic misfit-adventurers. If this truly is the last chapter, Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 aims to solidify a quality story, not one drawn out until it sours, retire with the belt, and end on a high note.