Jacked In Reviews ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ (2023)

As we open on our favourite racoon giving us a tour of Knowhere (the Guardian’s latest HQ destination) to Radiohead’s Creep, we’re immediately reminded of why Guardians of the Galaxy flicks are always a James Gunn movie first and an MCU movie second.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’ is the breath of fresh air we’ve all been waiting for.

Now, it’s indisputable that what the Marvel Cinematic Universe has accomplished is an absolutely groundbreaking feat. However, as of late, the movies have lacked the uniqueness of the Comic Book counterparts they are representing. Regardless of which director has been attached to each Marvel movie, stylistically, they all seem to merge into one. It’s almost as if all the instalments have been painted by the same artist ( i.e. Kevin Fiege) who is just using a different brush for each one. Thankfully, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the breath of fresh air we’ve all been waiting for.

‘GOTG’ is known for getting you in the feels but it’s fair to say this could be the most emotional entry yet.

Although a lot has happened between Vol. 2 and 3, the early introduction of Adam Warlock (Will Poulter) quickly reminds us where Gunn left us last. All our favourite characters are back, having been part of our lives since 2014, we’ve definitely formed an attachment to them. Now, GOTG is known for getting you in the feels but it’s fair to say this could be the most emotional entry yet. With the tremendous voice talents of Bradley Cooper (and the actions of Sean Gunn), we finally get the backstory for Rocket. A tragic tale that’s been hinted at since Vol. 1… but that still doesn’t prepare you for how heartbreaking it truly is. You’ll cry and laugh as Gunn masterfully balances drama and comedy. He takes you to the near peak of sadness before comforting you with some much-needed humour.

Here we or given this truly irredeemable character who gives true meaning to the word villain in all the best ways.

Enter the “big baddie” of this instalment AKA The High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji). More often than not when presented with a villain (even outside of comic book movies), though their view on the world may be misguided, we’re given some insight into their rationale, which allows us to (SOMEWHAT) empathise with them. Yet, here we or given this truly irredeemable character who gives true meaning to the word villain in all the best ways.

Although Gunn’s time with the Guardians seems to be over for the foreseeable, a leaf must be taken out of his book for future directors joining the MCU. Each filmmaker’s unique, artistic vision should be championed when coming aboard. More than anything else, to bring that individual style and personality to the multitude of Marvel characters that have yet to be explored.

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