Into The Forever. 4.5 / 5
Directed by James Gunn
Peter Quill must rally his team around him to defend the universe along with protecting one of their own. A mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.
The Guardians of the Galaxy has and forever will have a special place in my heart so as we arrive at this third and apparently final instalment in the series, it is with equal parts melancholy and excitement.
It's a miracle this film even exists with James Gunn's dramatic exit and subsequent rehire from Marvel. Still, he returned to finish what he started with this final farewell before he heads off to lead DC Studios with Peter Safran - closing his trilogy on a triumphant and emotional high.
It's a joy to see the Guardians back on the big screen figuring out their place in this post-Endgame universe set to the backdrop of yet another killer soundtrack, this time tapping into songs up until the 2000s thanks to Peter's recently gifted Zune. Where nothing may be as iconic as the first 'Ooga Chaka', countless needle drops elevate already incredible moments - special mention goes to Beastie Boys' No Sleep Till Brooklyn and the coinciding standout action sequence.
Marvel Studios hire varied directors so their films can still feel unique despite pumping 3-4 out per year but it's not until a talent like Gunn is behind the wheel that you can truly appreciate what these films can be capable of. The direction and production design have an incredible amount of care and attention to detail - you can feel the love for these characters in every frame which is more that can be said for much of Marvel's recent copy & paste releases.
On top of that - the visual effect work pushes the industry standard with countless new worlds, creatures and characters that blend seamlessly with the outlandish settings. Rocket and his anthropomorphic friends are jaw-dropping examples of what is now possible which only furthers their impact as characters and in the broader story.
Without much competition, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 is easily the strongest of Marvel's Multiverse Saga so far. Tying a bow around a pitch perfect trilogy, it feels appropriately wrapped up while leaving the door slightly ajar for any possible returns. Each Guardian gets a satisfying conclusion to their arcs and it makes perfect sense that Rocket's journey be the throughline that connects and brings these characters together for one last ride.
Read our latest reviews at: letterboxd.com/TheJackAling