(Editor’s Note: Don’t worry! There aren’t any spoilers here!)
When the teaser trailer for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 came out, I was excited. I loved the first movie and needed to see the next chapter. The teaser trailer worked to get me even more enthusiastic and then there was Baby Groot – who doesn’t love Baby Groot? The trouble with really wanting to see the next installment in a franchise is that it might not live up to your expectation. So, it was with a bit of trepidation that I walked into the full cinema to see the movie on opening day here in Australia. I did not want to be disappointed.
Fortunately, I was not disappointed. This second episode has a similar feel to the first movie but is very different in flavor. This is far more a character piece and the audience reacted in kind. I found myself laughing, jeering, tearing up, and making all manner of sympathetic sounds along with the rest of the group. There are several themes throughout the movie and the audience is swept along through the unraveling of these themes.
All our favorite characters are back and we are introduced to a few new ones along the way. I am loathed to give any details as I could easily give spoilers and I really want everyone to have the same experience I did when it comes to the plot of the movie.
I will go out on a limb here and declare Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 the best non-musical of this year’s musical movies. After all, though the characters never bust out into song at inappropriate times, there is no denying that the music in this movie is another character and it demands its presence to be recognized. The score is very similar to the first movie and those of a certain age will find that they are toe tapping along to this film as well. For those worried about dance offs, of course you will see some busting of moves and the ever-present Walkman.
One word to the wise, this is a Marvel movie. If you are not staying until the screen is black and the house lights are back to full, then you are missing parts of the entertainment. Depending on when you count the credits as rolling, there are four or five credit scenes.
The other Marvel movie Easter egg is the Stan Lee cameo. Yes, there is at least one Stan Lee cameo in this movie. For those fans who have been following the Stan Lee conspiracy theories, this movie might ignite your mind and answer some questions.
Wrapping it all up, I will be seeing Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 again. It was such a fun ride and a great way to distract me from the real world around. Of course, your mileage may vary.
Is this movie right for your family?
The movie is rated PG13 in the United States (M in Australia, 12A in the UK). I believe that this parental warning is for good reason. Like the first movie, there is a fair amount of science fiction themed violence and interactions. No one would ever expect Rocket Raccoon to be the most upstanding citizen and he embraces a few profanities (as do a few of the others), is inebriated at one point, and starts some amazingly violent and effective events. This movie broaches the subjects of bullying, what makes a person family, and what it is that makes us who we are – but do not worry, these subjects are handled with humor and in a true Guardians of the Galaxy way.
I would not have a problem taking any of my teen-aged nephews, nor my young adult daughter to see Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2; however, my seven-year-old nephew and I will not be going to see this movie. Well, at least not yet. So, if you have children under the recommended age, do your research before taking them. Likewise, if you have a sensitive family member, investigate whether this is the movie for them or not.
Now, I want to know your thoughts? What are you looking forward to? Share your thoughts of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 in the comments.
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