We have always known Guardians of the Galaxy to be a light-hearted and fun series. While there are always touching moments, they tend to be smaller ones that you cry about and get over through action and comic relief. But, what happens when an origin story gets a little too real? I would like to mention early on and clearly: if you have any sensitivities about animals you should view this film with caution. While the animal abuse and experimentation is used as a tool to exhibit the cruelty of the villain, it takes place throughout the film and can be hard to watch for some. Rocket Racoon’s origin story is one he doesn’t talk about because it’s hard for him and the film really shows you why. It is understood why this is shown and how much we need to hate the antagonist, but that doesn’t make it easier to watch. Just be aware and maybe bring tissues. 😉
Guardians of the Galaxy 3 is the final installment in the series and we see our heroes again after the infamous snap, dealing with life and moving on after. We see Quill still dealing with losing Gamora and how this affects the entire team, which also causes the team to dig up Rocket’s past and we learn, along with the team, about the atrocities that he never wants to talk about and why. The storyline is solid and gives way to the origin story organically. Everything works and feels very nostalgic for the first film. We instantly jump back into the action with the Guardians and get reminded why we love them.
The acting is what you would expect from the team, but the villain really shines here. Chukwudi Iwuji really knows how to exhibit explosive anger in a way that exhibits how maniacal this person is. Even Captain Ahab would wonder when this guy is going to give up, but he just keeps trucking. The additional cast really makes this volume better than what it could be and the best film of Phase 4. The cinematography, film direction, and special effects don’t offer anything we haven’t seen before. But, this installment seems to be one more focused on emotions than wowing you with visuals and that’s the point of the story. It’s an emotional ride for the Guardians. As you would expect, the soundtrack offers a lot and does not disappoint. The soundtrack is always one of the best parts of Guardian’s film.
Overall, I thought it was a good movie. I thought it was better than the second one and almost as good as the first. But, and it’s worth repeating, there is a lot of Rocket’s origin story and it could be a problem for animal lovers. I would advise tissues and a shoulder to cry on because it’s an emotional ride and a great send-off to these beloved characters. However, I give it an eight and definitely think it’s worth the price of a ticket to see it on the big screen. James Gunn does a great job sending these characters off into the sunset and is a great bookend to the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.
