GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 is directed and written by James Gunn. The original cast returns starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Michael Rooker with Vin Diesel as the voice of Baby Groot and Bradley Cooper as the voice of Rocket. In this new chapter, the Guardians of the Galaxy must once again work together to fight the evil beings of the universe while learning how to be a family and unraveling the mystery of Peter’s (Star Lord) father, Ego (Kurt Russell).
In 2014, I saw the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY on my birthday. It was a magical experience and one that I couldn’t wait to own. When Vol. 2 hit theaters, I could never find the time to watch it and I was disappointed because the posters and advertising for it was stunning, plus Baby GROOT! I’m happy to say that I finally got to experience the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 and I loved every second of it. Although I preferred the first one a bit more, Volume 2 stands strong as one of the best films I’ve seen this year. It has a great story, wonderful characters (both old and new), wonderfully nostalgic music as per usual, and twists and turns throughout the film.
The story is beautiful. It essentially was about what it means to have a family. Family comes in all different shapes and sizes. They may not be who created you, but the people you meet along your journey in life. Every single one of the characters in this film go through this experience in one way or another. They must learn to work together, trust one another, and learn to let the past go and embrace the future.
Shannon mentioned in her article at Creepy Kingdom that what works so well is the chemistry between the characters and I couldn’t agree more. I can’t picture a better group of people working together. Each actor brings so much personality and character to their roles and it makes them stand out more than other Marvel movies, at least in my opinion. I love Chris Pratt as Star Lord; he’s charming, funny, and relatable. Zoe Saldana is the perfect person to play Gamora; she’s strong, independent yet compassionate and I want to be her. Dave Bautista as Drax always makes me laugh – I can’t get enough of his ridiculous one-liners. Rocket and Baby Groot are the most adorable duo ever. Essentially these characters are a group of misfits ridden with heartbreak, pain, and the longings to fill the void in their hearts. When they work together they not only do that but become the guardians of the galaxy.
As far as new characters there were a few that popped up that I had no clue were in this. It was a pleasant surprise and I really enjoyed their roles.
The soundtrack for GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 wasn’t nearly as good as the first, however, it was still fun and catchy. My two favorites were “Fox on the Run” by The Sweet and “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by The Looking Glass. The latter plays an important part in the film and storyline.
Last but not least, there’s several little twists throughout the film that I thoroughly enjoyed. This film has less action than the first but I think the special twists and turns really helped spice it up and make up for the slower scenes. Some of the twists were predictable, but none the less entertaining and exciting. Some may even make you cry.
Overall GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 is definitely one you’ll want to check out. If you loved the first, you’ll enjoy the story, characters, music and fun new experiences this journey will take you on. Fingers crossed that a third one will be on its way in the near future.
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 is now available to own Digitally in HD, 4K Ultra HD, and Blu-ray.
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