My Review of "Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3"

Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 has finally arrived in 2023. It's a step back into the gang that we all know and love. Well I wasn't exactly a fan of the second movie. This movie kind of felt like a little mix between the first and the second movie.

Many will notice this is one of the few Marvel franchises where the characters haven't really switched up over the years. Well that is until after this movie. It feels like it's own distinct world and shies away from following the whole MCU Avenger's storyline. With that it feels self contained and unobstructed by having to follow some sort of MCU path.

This movie has a more focus on the character Rocket Raccoon for reasons that will be explained later on in the movie. A lot of the movie has a lot of well crafted foreshadowing and build up for a nice payoff later on in the movie. Some details more obvious than others.

There's a scenario with Gamora not understanding Groot for the longest time and that brings up a payoff for the audience later on when we realize Gamora was to represent the audience. You'll understand when if you see the movie.

We have a ton of character building with each of the characters that builds upon the urgency and an understanding of why everything matters. This focus on Rocket was a pretty wise choice as it helps us see what's coming for the future of the franchise.

The action sequences are pretty well done. There are slowdown action sequences that are absolutely beautiful. This is a movie that is fully appreciated in the movie theatres. I don't think I would get as much satisfaction for this movie at home as I do with the 3d glasses, big screen and loud ATMOS mix.

Though I feel I'm getting kind of old for these movies because I never really noticed how much they yell at each other in these types of movies. Each character is outright yelling at each other and it can get very grating. Characters will be right beside each other and have constant yelling matches. To be fair all of the characters act like children and that's kind of to be expected from these comic book movies targeted at kids.

As a super hero movie it checks all the boxes. It has a comprehensive story that doesn't falter too much. They build each of the characters up so that we have a vested interest in each of them. Though I was hoping for someone to die or disappear. Again it's a kids movie it isn't expected that will happen. Great action with tons of beautiful visuals.

I have to give it to the art direction of this movie as well. I thought the costumes were quite innovative even though some of the costumes were subdued. They were all appropriate and on brand.

We all know this franchise will continue because of its popularity but this movie definitely felt like a conclusion for a trilogy. Each of the characters have their own paths to follow but ultimately it is a celebration and for those of us that have been following the franchise it's a feel good ending.

Overall, I had a great time with this one but in the theatres. I don't think this movie will translate as well at home viewing. The spectacle of this movie is fully appreciated in the cinemas. It is still a good movie but I have to give this movie a 7 out of 10. I'd be happy if they ended this franchise here with this movie but I know they'll continue on. Still I won't mind seeing what's to come for this wild group.