Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 blasts onto the screen, defying superhero fatigue and delivering a warm and fuzzy experience that reminds us why we fell in love with these misfit heroes in the first place. Navigating a slightly overstuffed narrative with finesse, the latest instalment combines mischief, humour, and an abundance of heart, resulting in a cinematic experience that genuinely tugs at your emotions.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a fitting finale for the motley crew of antiheroes first introduced in James Gunn’s 2014 Guardians of the Galaxy, who have become fan favourites in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The team comprises of tough and quirky characters like Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Drax (Dave Bautista), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel), and Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper). There are also some new additions, including a struggling space pirate Kraglin (Sean Gunn), a telekinetic space dog Cosmo (Maria Bakalova), and Will Poulter’s Adam Warlock, an arrogant super-being.
In this latest instalment, the gang must face off against the formidable High Evolutionary, played with delightful theatrics by Chukwudi Iwuji. Along the way, they encounter alternate versions of familiar characters and plenty of bro-ish humour.
The movie itself includes some standout moments. The production design team creates a stunning, organic space station that is filled with inventive doorways and airlocks. Additionally, there is a slow-motion fight sequence in a corridor that showcases impressive digital camerawork – which is up there with the best action sequences in the MCU.
The Guardians of the Galaxy franchise has always had a musical theme running through it, and in Vol. 3, director James Gunn continues to use the mixtape as a central metaphor. This time around, Peter Quill’s playlist is more diverse, featuring artists like Beastie Boys, The The, and Florence + the Machine.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 delivers a bittersweet yet satisfying conclusion to the beloved team of misfits. However, the new characters Ayesha and Adam Warlock feel out of place and fail to make a meaningful impact. Despite this, the movie’s small moments shine, and it’s clear that Gunn’s distinct directorial style takes precedence over Marvel’s formula. The film stands alone and avoids unnecessary connections to the larger MCU, which is a refreshing change of pace.
As the culmination of a story that started back in 2014, the film delivers satisfying resolutions and closure for this unconventional family. James Gunn’s distinctive storytelling weaves together humour, heartfelt moments, and a harmonious soundtrack, despite a slightly cluttered plot, and underutilization of Adam Warlock.
The exceptional chemistry among the cast and Gunn’s soulful directorial style make this a standout entry in the MCU, concluding with an emotionally charged and action-packed crescendo.
The production of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 was a rollercoaster ride. James Gunn, the director, was fired from the project and all Disney properties in 2018 due to his old tweets containing inappropriate jokes. However, after receiving support from many in Hollywood, including the Guardians actors, he was ultimately reinstated. Seizing the opportunity, he has created a hilarious, touching, and sincere conclusion to what is undoubtedly the most consistent trilogy in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Gunn’s departure from Marvel highlights the loss of a unique voice in the franchise, and it will be a challenge for whoever comes next to fill his shoes. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 sets a new path forward for the team, but it’s a worthy finale for this specific saga. But ultimately, the film delivers a satisfying conclusion to the Guardians’ story, complete with action-packed battles, heartwarming moments, and a few surprises. Fans of the series won’t be disappointed with this epic conclusion to the beloved franchise.
Final Verdict: 4.2 stars (out of 5)