Film Review: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 (James Gunn, 2017) ★★★★

Film Review: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 (James Gunn, 2017) ★★★★

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When a poor decision by Rocket (Bradley Cooper) finds them on the run from The Sovereign fleet, The Guardians Of The Galaxy gang, Gamora (Zoe Saldana), Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Drax (Dave Bautista) and Baby Groot (Vin Diesel) receive help from Ego (Kurt Russell) - a living planet claiming to be Peter’s long-lost father.

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When the original Guardians of the Galaxy was released in 2014, it was arguably Marvel Studio's riskiest venture to date. The Guardians of the Galaxy were completely unknown to the mainstream - but also nothing like the original 1969 Guardians seen in the comic books. However, it paid off ten-fold when it received critical acclaim and won the hearts of film fans everywhere. Featuring a sarky talking raccoon-hybrid, a vocabulary-challenged tree, an ex-WWE wrestler, a green female warrior, a refined Andy Dwyer from Parks And Recreation and paired with one of the catchiest soundtracks in movie history, it somehow came together and it works.

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Cut forward three years and James Gunn and the original cast returns with Vol.2 - set three months following the events of the original. Having saved the galaxy in their first adventure, the team is now struggling to keep the family together and is presented with a new challenge when the mystery of Peter Quill's true parentage is revealed to be Ego (Russell) - an immortal celestial being and living planet in human form. Torn between his desire to finally know his biological father and live out his days in his kingdom, and the feeling that he must stay with his friends - Peter is presented with a difficult position.

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There is no denying that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 is hilarious from start to finish. Where Drax (Bautista) could once be considered a more serious character, he is now the main source of hilarity throughout. Combined with the perfectly executed moments of Baby Groot which are beyond adorable and it's usual charm, it makes for an incredibly entertaining film. However, this is not to say that the film is perfect by comparison to it's prequel. There are jokes from the very get go which will cause you to laugh out loud but there are a few which don't fully land on their feet.  That said, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s the dazzling visuals which are truly remarkable, the dry whit which runs seamlessly through the narrative or the unique weirdness which sets Guardians apart from other MCU and general blockbusters alike.

Unlike the previous film which had a relatively basic (but effective) structure, there are many crossover plot lines throughout Vol.2; which at times can seem like a lot to take in and add to the running time. It does at times feel as though Gunn has attempted to cram in a lot which is perhaps one of it's only real flaws. However, it does feature a great deal of heart.

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Whilst Peter's newfound relationship with his father is ultimately the focal point, as a whole the film is very much about exploring other relationships and backstories which further build character development; Gamora and her sister, Nebula (Karen Gillan) or Drax and Mantis (Pom Klementieff). In particular though, Vol.2 shines a more heartfelt light on Rocket (Cooper) and Yondu (Michael Rooker)- two characters which are often perceived to be fenced off and have negative character traits. Whilst there is, of course, a great amount of humour throughout the film, the sentimental plot points really tie the entire narrative together. There are scenes which are truly saddening thus displaying that Gunn not only knows how to direct a comedy, but he also knows how to handle a good tragedy.

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From a cinematography stand point, the cosmic setting is the ultimate visual playground. With the introduction of new characters comes new eye-popping colours, set-pieces and beautifully envisioned landscapes which are truly stunning and worthy of seeing on the Big Screen. Naturally, this does mean that CGI is used heavily throughout and arguably there are the scenes where the action and explosions seems excessive. Thankfully, this does not take anything away from the narrative. Unlike some recent flicks by where the CGI distracts, Vol.2 finds a way to use it to it's advantage - showcased in 8k.

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Ultimately, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is bursting with life. From start to finish it is energetic with humour and sadness in equal measure. Despite the narrative not being as strong as the original movie and some slight access action, for the most part - the colour and silliness is infectious and, in true Marvel style, there are plenty of easter eggs in there. The Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 gets a Sophie star rating of 4 out of 5 stars - truly one of the best films you'll see all year. Now go see it.

Well, that's it for another film review. Have you seen Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 yet? What did you think of it? As always I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. Huge thanks also goes to Disney for allowing us to see this ahead of release.

Until next time film fans,

Film Event: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 UK Premiere Gala

Film Event: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 UK Premiere Gala

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This week, I was lucky enough to attend one of the biggest premiere events of the year - the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 Gala in London. With a prime spot on the blue carpet and a ticket to see the film ahead of release, here's a little look at my evening...

Held at The Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, hundreds of lucky Marvel fans and press gathered for the UK's advanced screening of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 which hits cinemas later this week. With the film's director, James Gunn, and majority of the cast in attendance, the Gala was set to be a memorable event and your's truly had a spot in the front row of the media pen. I may have had to wait out in the cold for a short while, but I'd do it again one hundred times over because I was fortunate enough to snap these shots as the stars made their way on to the carpet and I even got to have a chat with a few of them too... 

Pictured above, of course, is the legend that is Kurt Russell (who plays Peter Quill's father, Ego), Michael Rooker (best known as Yondu and from The Walking Dead); Pom Klementieff (Mantis), Chris Pratt (Starlord) and wife Anna Faris, Karen Gillian (Nebula), and the stunning Zoe Saldana (Gamora). One by one they made their way across the carpet and in to the building for interviews. And so, with the cast now inside, it was time for me to venture indoors and take our seats for the main event. 

As you can see, everyone looked absolutely stunning. You see pictures of them online and in magazines all the time but, until they're a few feet from your own eyes, you don't realise just how beautiful they all are in real life. I had a very brief chat with Chris Pratt and Anna Faris and both were so lovely and friendly - despite the cold and some very shouty photographers demanding their time.

The rumour floating round that Disney had chosen the venue for the Gala based on the sound quality and, if so, it did not disappoint. In the foyer, there was a selection of photo backdrops and booths as well as exclusive merchandise and the bar area. Once in our seats, we were all treated to a DJ set using classic songs from both The Guardians of the Galaxy and Vol.2 (you can see clips of this on my Facebook and Twitter). The atmosphere was absolutely amazing. To finish up the night, the cast made their way on to the stage to introduce the film (alongside presenter, Edith Bowman) and it was finally time to sit back and enjoy the movie. 

Well, that's it for another film event. If you do get a chance to see Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 this weekend I cannot recommend it enough. I truly believe that this could be one of my favourite films of the year already. Fingers crossed I'll find some time before it's release to give you guys a full film review. 

But tell me, will you be seeing Vol.2 this weekend? What expectations do you have of the film? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. 

A ginormous thanks to ODEON Cinemas - I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to attend this event. 

Until next time film fans,

Disclaimer: Please note that all images in this post were photographed by myself and are not for free or public use. They are protected under copyright and are property of Popcorn & Glitter.