Run time: 121mins Certificate: 12A
Director: James Gunn
Cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista.
Release Date: July 31, 2014 (UK)
Footloose in space.
On paper Guardians of the Galaxy seemed like quite a risk for Marvel to pull off so early in their grand plans, and even after the first slew of trailers not everyone was sold. But after having seen it, its hard to believe it could have ever been considered anything but a sure fire hit. Canny casting, top notch effects and Marvel’s funniest script yet all come together to have a hell of a time. By the time the credits roll (and yes, of course you’ve waited till the end) the Guardians themselves will be among you’re favourites in the growing roster and James Gunn will have put the Universe in Marvel Universe.
First off its important to mention what is perhaps the one thing that differentiates Guardians the most from the rest of its superhero family; cursing. Why Rocket Raccoon can cough out “Batshit crazy” when previous 12A entries have shied away from it (even Shane Black struggled in Iron Man 3) is curious, even more so when it clearly improves the dialogue here. While swearing generally isn’t necessary for comedy, here it serves the characters persona’s. Just like Tony Stark, I’d never expect Rocket or Starlord to bite their tongue, and luckily they don’t have to. The less restrained approach also allows Gunn to dip into some crass humour every so often, and every joke hits its mark. I never thought I wanted to hear John C. Reilly retort he’d never consider someone to be “100% a dick” in a Marvel film, but now that I have I wouldn’t want it any other way. You’ll hardly be counting the F-bombs, but this isn’t what would be described as child friendly either. Its an area I hope future instalments remain lax on, after all as the tales get more dramatic, there’s only so child friendly every feature can remain.
Despite taking full advantage of its 12A liberties Guardians will likely make audiences feel nostalgic with child like wonder as they’re plunged into its well crafted galaxy. Drawing up comparisons to the likes of Star Wars is easy, but this is very much its own beast, so much so that it will be interesting to see whether comparisons are drawn between Star Wars VII and this in turn. Even with the responsibility of having to tie into the overarching plot of the extended universe, the central plot is kept remarkably simple and its backdrop even more so, a wise move given that the film has much to accomplish for a first outing.
To counter this every setting is full of detail that breathes life and realism into even the wackiest of locations, with actual sets having just as much a place as CGI. This extends into the action, with many of the set pieces evoking some space caper staples albeit with a unique Guardians twist. Each Guardian’s character also bleeds into the action, which makes watching them battle it out alongside each other a blast. Lastly it would be a disservice not to mention the myriad assortment of great 70’s rock plugged into the soundtrack. It accentuates the happy-go-lucky outlook of Quill throughout proceedings no matter how grandiose things get.
Setting up a superhero team without a five film build up is quite the achievement, but having each one be as unique and likeable as the next is damned impressive. Chris Pratt is a perfect fit for the rebel come leader with a heart Peter Quill, his comedic chops adding levity to any scene without ever feeling forced. Zoe Saldana as Gamora offers some seriousness to the team but remains just as compelling as the rest as she warms to rolling with the punches. Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper) and Groot (Vin Diesel) are perfectly captured and voiced here. Bradley Cooper jumps from cracking one liners to cracking up emotionally effortlessly whilst Vin Diesel’s Groot is just a joy to watch no matter what he’s doing. Perhaps the films true star however is Dave Bautista’s Drax, his inability to understand metaphors leading to some hilarious misunderstandings. He’s not without a sense of humour or camaraderie though, and is surprisingly appealing for a man who bears the title of ‘The Destroyer’.
The other side of the moral compass is more of a mixed bag however. Michael Rooker’s Yondu and Karen Gillan’s Nebula are the best of the bunch, fulfilling their purpose as minor villains well. Minor they may be, but they’re well served with some nice action sequences and character beats. Djimmon Hounsou’s Korath however is hardly present in comparison, underwhelming even in his (sole) capacity as a physical threat. Lee Pace provides some presence as the antagonist Ronan, but beyond that he feels flat compared to our colourful heroes. The streamlined plot may help the films pace, but its clear that Ronan suffers from a lack of explanation for his motives. Even in action he comes across as an aloof, untouchable punch bag rather than a formidable conqueror. Encounters with an all powerful villain shouldn’t be this mundane (That hammer is woefully underutilised). Speaking of all powerful, in what is sure to be a fan pleasing moment we are treated to our first proper encounter with Thanos, and he sure looks good. The effects may not be perfect, but for a cameo the design and voice (Josh Brolin) certainly left me anticipating his next appearance.
Verdict
For a first attempt Guardians of the Galaxy ticks almost all of the boxes, standing up there as one of the best Marvel films to date. For a film full of crass humour, oddball characters and classic sci-fi references its a testament to its quality that no matter what you’re preferences are you’re bound to have a hell of a lot of fun. You’ll root for the Guardians just as much as you did the Avengers even though you’ve just met them, its just a shame that the villains lost out along the way.
Hits
+Each and every Guardian is bound to be a favourite.
+Universe and its inhabitants are beautiful.
+Hilarious writing without boundaries.
+Old school set pieces impress.
+Great selected soundtrack.
Misses
–Poorly executed villains.
Overall Rating
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