The IMAX theatre was full, the smell of popcorn was in the air and I think we all were breathing freely. I went into the theatre feeling confident that I would love what I was about to see. I counted on the music being good, the quips being funny, and a few moments where I wouldn’t be sure if a character I loved would make it. I went in knowing that this was going to be the last Guardians of the Galaxy movie, and I was prepared to say goodbye. I remember the first film, it had come out in the midst of the Marvel Cinematic Universes hay day. Back when it felt like comic book movies would keep coming and I would never ever get tired of them. Now, I am still in, but I’m not sure I will be forever. Vol.3 focused on Rocket, one of the most loveable and scruffy members of the crew. His back story was filled with a lot of horrible things. These experiences helped explain the raccoon – not-a-racoon, that we all know and love today. I have heard arguments that the movie went too far and the trauma was visually upsetting. Having never experienced real trauma like that, I would have to defer to those that have. There were a lot of moments that were tough to watch and those with a sensitivity to animal cruelty may want to skip it altogether. That being said, I loved it. I enjoyed seeing them all one more time, even if the ties that held them together were beginning to fray. Found family is one of my favorite tropes. Found family that saves the day is going to win me over every time. The music was great. The quips were mostly funny (there were a few too mean to tease a laugh from me). I won’t tell you if all the characters make it, but I definitely am glad I had the chance to say goodbye to them in this final film.
My recommendation is to see it in the theatre as soon as you can.
What are we seeing? 