Looking back, there are very few superhero trilogies that I can say are perfect. Usually, there will always be that one dud in the lineup that holds back the franchise from reaching it’s full potential, and in a market that’s over saturated in the hero genre, it’s no wonder that these films are met with so much criticism whenever they’re below average. In my eyes, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 not only delivers a solid ending, but it also stacks itself as possibly the best trilogy in the MCU and of the superhero genre of all time. Spoilers ahead.
The hardest part of any hero’s journey is the ending. In the MCU specifically, we’re not used to seeing character arcs end with finality. The MCU has propped itself to be this huge, ongoing universe which is monumental, but not without bringing down some of the characters that deserve closure to their stories. After seeing Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3, I can happily say, that I’m very much content with where the story ends. It’s punctual, it’s meaningful, it has heart, and these characters more than anything get something that we all need, closure.. I’m content that James Gunn was able to lead this story all the way to the end because we get a trilogy that feels complete and fully explored. So with that being said, I want to dive in a bit on everything that worked for me.
Rocket. Rocket Raccoon. If you would’ve told me more than a decade ago that a talking raccoon would be one of the best characters in the MCU, I would of laughed in your face. His story up until volume 3 shows hints at a dark and traumatic past, but it’s in Volume 3 where we are shown his backstory. One can argue that Rocket has always been a driving force in the guardians films, but it’s in this movie where he’s put at the forefront of the story. His past is revealed and unravels in one of the most heartbreaking, emotional story arcs you’ll see. Bradley Cooper who does the voice acting the mocap performance for Rocket is at his all time best in this film. Director Gunn’ doesn’t hold back in the very dark nature of Rocket’s past, which shows us some morbid and gruesome animal abuse sequences, while also propping up the films vile villain, the High Evolutionary.
Speaking of the High Evolutionary, this has to be one of the most unapologetically vile, and evil villains we’ve ever seen in the MCU. There is no chance for redemption, there is no empathy needed, this character is just pure evil. The kind of villain that makes you hate him, and root for his demise because of all the wrong he’s done. The actor who portrays him, Chukwudi Iwuji, does a fantastic job portraying this over the top, Frankenstein-like character who has a God complex in his quest of seeking perfection. I also love that this film doesn’t have the most world breaking, powerful villain as the person they’re going up against. He’s brought on so much trauma to one of their loved ones (Rocket), and poses a big threat to him in particular that the stakes in the film are at an all time high because of how personal the threat is. No need for an Avenger’s level threat to be taken serious. The opening scene of the High Evolutionary’s large looming hand hovering over a baby Rocket sets the mood and tone for what’s to come.
The Guardians cast returns, and once again, the found family trope is at it’s strongest here. Every single character and actor does a beautiful job with their characters, bringing equal amounts of vulnerability and some genuine laughs. Chris Pratt who plays Star Lord reminds us why he was cast as the lead in the first place, and delivers his best portrayal of the character up to date. A smart, and caring leader who never gives up on his friends and family. Dave Bautista and Pom Klementieff are great as always, and are my favorite comedy duo. Nebula played by Karen Gillan also does a fantastic job with her character, and she is also a strong contender of being one of the best comic book movie characters of all time. Nebula has grown so much over the course of the films, it’s great seeing her character growth. Zoe Saldana also takes on a very different yet familiar portrayal of her Gamora, who interestingly enough (if you’ve seen the Avengers film, then you’ll know) is not the same Gamora we’ve all come to know and love. There is nuance to her character but I think ultimately, it all ties up beautifully at the end. The entire Guardians team just all genuinely have amazing chemistry and a believable bond. Everyone is perfectly cast.
What more can I say? I loved the movie a lot, I think it does a great job at closing out the characters journeys. The music was fantastic. The writing is great, there is so much heart in these characters. Heck even the visual FX was great, since I do feel that the FX has been lacking lately within the MCU projects. Overall, I do believe that fans of the Guardians of the Galaxy will not be disappointed with this entry, as it serves well as being the ending to a wonderful journey.
Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 is now in theaters
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