It's hard to make a sequel as good as the first, but they pulled it off

Rating: 10/10 (6 May 2017)

Saw the movie today and was thoroughly entertained. The characters we love are all back, plus some new characters who offer some great casting surprises. I purposely hadn't read the reviews, so did not know those particular actors were a part of this movie. I though it was well cast and everyone did a great job. The special effects sometimes were the usual Hollywood over-the-top, but overall they didn't detract from the movie. And, as usual, Stan Lee's cameo was hilarious.
The story itself could have been unassuming and so-so, but the addition of truly emotional and "get's ya' right here" moments upped the ante, making the entire movie all the better. Even Baby Groot, whom I expected to be too kitschy and cliché (*cough* JarJar *cough*) was a great addition. His tiny character was entertaining, funny, and touching.
Comic space operas aren't supposed to be tear jerkers, but I wasn't the only one in the theater swiping a cheek near the end. No spoilers here -- just go see it for yourself. But if you have even a half-cell's worth of emotion in you, you might want to tuck a tissue into your pocket.
And be SURE to stay through the credits to get a peak at the future.