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Thoughts on... Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (Spoiler-free)




'Father And Son'

By Desmond


There’s really nothing quite like watching a new Marvel film at the cinema. It has this kind of raw, eclectic energy which flows through a careful balance of heart, humour, and self-awareness. And that energy is definitely contagious. Yet, within this shared aesthetic, I sometimes find them bound to a constant struggle between reconciling the zany comic book roots of the source material, and telling a more grounded tale for film. The first Guardians of the Galaxy was the complete opposite of grounded; providing some vague links to the worlds we have previously bore witness to before leaving it all behind. This bold new direction, embracing the wonder and absurdity of the source material, channeled through likeable characters, showed the promise of the franchise. It was, in my mind, the most refreshing IP from Marvel Studios in a very long time. Guardians of the galaxy Vol. 2 continues in the path of the first, delivering laughs and Sci-Fi hijinks, all encased in a very personal story; a story which, at its core, is about family.

The film centres once again on the five titular Guardians, and de facto leader Peter Quill A.K.A Star Lord, it’s plot set into motion when Peter’s estranged father, introducing himself as ‘Ego’, mysteriously returns, offering solace and answers; leading the Guardians to a world of impossible beauty which hides an unspeakable truth. The film’s opening, after a brief vignette, thrusts the audience immediately into the action with a deftly handled scene involving a battle with an inter-dimensional monstrosity. It is here that we see a welcome return to the interplay between the various personalities of the unconventional main characters, all effortlessly played by their respective actors. The chemistry between the five leads, replete with tensions and comedic banter, remain at the core of the narrative; the strength of their bond, tested. Contrasting the drab, desaturated colours of some other Marvel films (Civil War comes to mind), is the lurid palette on display here, matching the tone of the first film. The impeccable soundtrack is treated with great importance by the script, as it traces and emphasises the awe-inspiring onscreen spectacle.

Now, to those who have seen the first film, what I’m describing will sound overtly similar - and it is. While Vol. 2 retains the same bite and exhilarating energy of the first, there is something to be said of the familiarity felt within the events of the movie. 

What we have here, in my opinion, is an enduringly fun, if a little safe, sequel that perhaps does not feel as inventive as its predecessor. However, I would not let this detract from what still remains; a quality dose of exhilarating Sci-Fi space opera, told through a Marvel lens. And is that not enough?


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