Written by John Edward Betancourt One big reason that we pick up comic books and collect them en masse… is to learn more about the human experience. For the comic book is a world where everyone is represented equally and without judgment and those powerful stories, help us to learn so much about the lives of others and also who we are and how we live and that is why this medium has endured and it is another big reason as to why the comic book movie is enjoying unprecedented success and sustainability at the box office. Because at long last, everyone is being represented on the silver screen and the majesty being portrayed in that light, alongside that incredible success, has slowly allowed for the comic book movie to evolve, and provide its viewer with storytelling that goes above and beyond. Which is why we are starting to see stories about superheroes, deal with very real and powerful topics that the medium doesn’t often touch upon. Such as the power of grief via trauma and loss and the difficult journeys we all go through in life as we try to heal and make a path that sustains us emotionally and one particular set of comic book films that have led the charge in these types of explorations are the Guardians of the Galaxy stories. Because James Gunn’s brilliant scripts and brilliant work behind the camera has allowed for us to examine stories about what it means to belong in the modern world, and the struggles that real family can bring and the benefits of extended family and now, to close out the trilogy, Gunn and the Guardians are tackling some of the heaviest topics they’ve handled to date. A feat that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 accomplishes, by offering up one of the most unique Marvel Cinematic Universe stories to date. For this is that rare MCU flick that doesn’t feature a grandiose super villain that is eager to conquer the galaxy and dominate all that they see. No instead, the Guardians square off against an egotistical maniac that reminds us of some of the ‘innovators’ present in our current world and while the evil and twisted machinations of The High Evolutionary are indeed worthy of the MCU, his desires to have things his way and only his way, instead forces our heroes to confront something that they and few of us ever enjoy confronting… our past. Which is an unexpected exploration to find in the MCU, for this is the kind of stuff we tend to find only in dramas, not a big budget comic book extravaganza. But that is what this film focuses upon and that leads to some powerful moments for the Guardians and for the audience. The kind that moves you and of course teaches the audience grand lessons along the way. Wherein we are taught to always face that which hurts us and that which defines us, because to ignore that which fundamentally changes us leaves us stagnant and static in life, and we will never have inner peace or agency, or personal growth without that grand moment when we stand before yesterday. And it is simply incredible to see an MCU film tackle a topic that most people don’t start to understand or properly face until they are well into adulthood, but it is welcome to see here. Since it inspires the viewer and speaks to the evolution of the genre and perhaps hints at deeper things to come for the MCU. However, while it is indeed wonderful that James Gunn goes all out in this particular story to offer us something new and beautiful for the genre, we’d be remiss to not discuss the two-ton Abilisk in the room. For this is in fact, the end of the trilogy, and the swan song for the Guardians as well, and endings are important. Because what can make or break a trilogy is whether or not it ends in a manner that satisfies the fans and the good news here, is that Gunn has brought forth a beautiful ending to his beautiful and meaningful saga. One that brings forth happiness and joy and the sense of satisfaction that we crave when it comes to the end of a story. But make no mistake about it, while we have indeed discussed how this motion picture is home to some heavy themes and some moving farewells… this is also a story that stays true to its roots. For the action and adventure present here remains top-notch and there are indeed heroic acts for the Guardians to perform. Not to mention, the soundtrack, a vital component to this saga, fits perfectly once again and above all… the fun factor is still here. Courtesy of well-timed humor, some epic cameos and the outright heart that is exclusive to James Gunn’s work. And of course, the cast turns in amazing performances here to sell the deeper moments and the majesty of growth and well, all of these elements make this a must-see movie. In part, because it is a revolutionary comic book film in what it presents to the audience. But more so because… there’s no better way to bid farewell to these beloved characters and this moving saga, than the same way our relationship with them started; in a theater, amongst strangers, sharing in the joy of an honest and moving story about life and the wild places it takes us.
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