Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) Review

 

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Guardians of the Galaxy follows Peter Quill, aka Star Lord, who is forced into a truce with four intergalactic criminals in order recover the power stone and stop Ronan the Accuser from laying waste to Xandar. 

I think what made Guardians of the Galaxy stand out so much upon it’s release, and even now, 7 years later (can’t believe it’s been that long), is that it found a very distinct identity for itself, one that was infectiously fun and a true joy to watch. I’ve been wanting to make my way back to this series for awhile for many reasons, plenty of which stem from the incredible soundtrack (the only soundtrack which I own by the way) which just pulls you into the mood and headspace of Quill, who in many ways has never grown up. It’s this mentality that makes the pairing with the Guardians work. They are individuals, who like Quill, had their lives ripped away from them and their futures left uncertain, torn apart from any family they may have originally had. It’s the perfect recipe for bringing these damaged criminals together to save the galaxy, not because they have to or want to, but simply because they, like the rest of us insufferable people, live in it too. 

This journey of self discovery leads them to Ronan, who in all respects, isn’t a bad villain either. Just enough evil to make the Guardians first solo outing work wonderfully, as it’s a steady blend of hard hitting humor and epic action to make the film in ways superhero movies rarely are able to do. I do have to circle back around to the soundtrack though. God, it’s just so good, packed with 70s hits from Blue Swede, David Bowie, Redbone, Jackson 5, and Marvin Gaye that have you grooving and enjoying every single second of this masterpiece. 

Guardians sports an epic cast, starring Benicio Del Toro, John C. Riley, Djimon Hounsou, Karen Gillan, Michael Rooker, Lee Pace, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Zoe Saldana, and Chris Pratt. Pratt really captures the humorous and badass qualities that Quill has to offer and he was the perfect choice to lead this incredible group. Cooper and Bautista also stand out as some of the most memorable, funniest, and quotable members of the cast, stealing every single scene they’re in. 

Guardians of the Galaxy, directed by James Gunn, is, in many respects, the Star Wars of my generation. A thrilling space Western that introduces us to the wider cosmic side of the MCU, that still towers above most of the superhero genre to this day with its splashy color palette, thrilling action, and sincere themes of family that are equally as beautiful and relatable to anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong somewhere. 

9.8/10