The term Star Wars-esque has been used many times in the past to describe certain movies with a sci-fi variety. It’s a term I generally don’t like because it’s unfair to that film. But, Star Wars-esque but it may be the most appropriate term to describe Marvel’s latest film, Guardians of the Galaxy. Warning, spoilers ahead…
When Marvel first announced this project, many comic book aficionados were aware of these B-list perhaps even C-list heroes. Thus making a film that further expands the Marvel Cinematic Universe an incredible gamble for Marvel to undertake. To producer Kevin Feige’s credit, he was right and the naysayers were wrong.
With the exception of Thor, the Marvel films are grounded to here on earth. Guardians, directed by James Gunn, take us to a galaxy not so far away. It tells the story of Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), an adventurer/outlaw also known (only to himself) as Star-lord. The film opens with Peter as a young boy saying goodbye to his dying mother. After her death, he runs out of the hospital and breakdown crying. A beam of light shines down and he goes missing. Fast forward 26 years later Peter now a young man, finds himself caught in the middle of an impending war when he steals a mysterious orb that coveted by the villain Ronan, the Accuser who “works” for Thanos who is fully seen sitting on his throne (voiced by Josh Brolin), the BIG BAD of the Marvel universe.
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| THANOS voiced by Josh Brolin |
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| Ronan the Accuser & Nebula (Lee Pace & Karen Gillan) |
When Quill discovers the true power and threat the orb and the infinity stone it houses possesses, he must convince them to join him in saving the galaxy, as they know it. Guardians is an action packed, well executed epic space opera with a familiar formula that works on every level. It expands the universe to unlimited potential. The main characters are wonderful together and you care about each one. Rocket and Groot may have stolen every scene they appeared in. Rocket, for his snarky disposition and diminutive height and Groot for making the most of his “I. Am. Groot.” lines as anyone or anything could in cinema. What a treat these two characters are.
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| The Guardians of the Galaxy! You’re Welcome. |
As for Peter Quill, Gamora and Drax, Pratt, Saldana and Bautista play them to perfection. Let me also add that the soundtrack is top notch. Guardians is a thrilling film and one of the very best Marvel has made to date. As of this review, a sequel has already been announced with 2017 as its target date. I can’t wait for that. Now, in regards to the post credit extra scene, all I’ll say is that it won’t further any ongoing story arcs. But it is a nod to Marvel’s past and should put a smile on your face.
****1/2 (out of 5 stars)
****1/2 (out of 5 stars)
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
