In Marvel We Trust

Rating: 9/10 (15 August 2014)

Quickie Review:
Peter Quill a.k.a. Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) comes into possession of a mysterious orb that the ruthless Ronan the Accuser is seeking out. A bounty is placed on Quill, resulting in him crossing paths with Gamora (Zoe Saldana) an assassin, Drax (Dave Bautista) a brute, Groot (Vin Diesel) a walking tree and Rocket (Bradley Cooper) a talking raccoon. Their adventures together strengthen the bonds amongst them and they go on to form the most bizarre team, Guardians of the Galaxy. The biggest risk Marvel Studios has taken since even conceptualizing their cinematic universe is helmed by the director James Gunn, who couldn't be more perfect for the job. This is by the far one of the most unique comic book movies that has ever graced the silver screens. With incredible visuals, soundtrack, comedy, and characters, this is a thrill ride that is relentlessly awesome and entertaining. An experience that should not be missed.
Full Review:
To call this movie a risk back in 2012 because of the non-existent popularity, is putting it lightly. Now it's finally released in 2014 and this risk has paid off big time thanks to its distinctive take on the comic book genre.
The best thing about this movie is the Guardians team. Every single one of them is memorable, and relevant to the team and the story. They are not just likable, they are lovable! Star-Lord is bound to become to a classic cinematic hero in the future. The best way I could describe him is that he is the love child of Han Solo and Indiana Jones, and I mean that without exaggeration. Gamora is a great rich and complex character. You can tell there is lot more to her that we don't know, but enough information is given to us that she is fully fleshed out. Drax was a surprise to me because Dave Bautista is not exactly the best actor, but I thought he delivered on the physicality and the deadpan humor of the character effectively. Ah Groot, it is astonishing how this character is better-rounded than most other characters in Hollywood movies, even with his limited vocabulary rivaled only by Hodor of Game of Thrones. Still, the one that stole the show, Rocket Raccoon! Who knew so much badassery can be contained in a talking raccoon? More importantly there is actually an emotional depth behind this gun-toting, wisecracking creature.
Beyond the characters, what made this movie work is the overall tone and atmosphere. Again if I used another analogy, Guardians of the Galaxy is like Star Wars on acid (don't do drugs kids). It's visually bright, colorful and absolutely stunning. The movie doesn't bog itself down with overly dramatic brooding moments. In fact, even during the direst of situations comedic moments would sneak through and catch you off-guard, but you'll be genuinely laughing out loud. I think I may have missed some jokes because I was still laughing at something funny that happened previously. The soundtrack, wow, I loved the use of retro classics. It gave the movie its own character and flair.
The only problem I have is with Ronan. Once again Guardians of the Galaxy has fell into the Marvel trap of weak villains (excluding Loki and Winter Soldier of course). He is just means to give the story a conflict. There is nothing more beyond the fact that he is evil because well he is evil.
So if you can't tell already, I thoroughly enjoyed Guardians of the Galaxy. It surpassed all my high expectations. This has already been an amazing year for blockbusters and Marvel delivered us on yet another gem (yes horrible pun intended). So don't miss out on the most unique comic book movie ever that is also one of Marvel Studio's best.
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