This is the most fun I've had at a Marvel movie in quite some time. The humor works amazingly well with these characters, particularly the Drax-centric humor, which nearly always hits. James Gunn has a genuinely great handle on all of these characters. The visuals looked stellar, especially in IMAX. Rounding out his Guardians Trilogy in style, James Gunn's swan song sees Star Lord and the gang racing against the clock to save Rocket after he's injured in an attack by Adam Warlock. Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, and the whole crew reprise their roles for what is potentially their last hurrah. 

The Marvel Cinematic Universe will definitely feel the absence of Gunn's impressive directing skills. His dynamic camera movements, well-coordinated action scenes, and hand-picked soundtrack elevate the cinematic experience. Gunn seamlessly blends music and action, making some set pieces feel like music videos without them feeling like non-sequiturs. The corridor fight scene, in particular, stands out as a prime example of his talent. His energetic style bleeds out of the screen and infects the audience with that same energy. 

Rocket's story takes center stage in volume 3, with several flashback sequences shedding light on Rocket's mysterious origins. In some instances, the flashbacks flow smoothly with the rest of the narrative, but in others, they feel out of place and drag the pace of the action. These flashbacks also feature some of the darkest imagery of the MCU, depicting the aftermath of cruel animal experimentation. In spite of the darkness, Rocket's backstory serves as the film's emotional core.

Immensely satisfying, from start to finish, “Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3” has reinvigorated the Marvel Cinematic Universe with some life that has been missing since the conclusion of The Infinity Saga. It still falls into some of the familiar trappings that have plagued this franchise. (No spoilers, but the Marvel fake death trope rears its ugly head--and I won't say how many times). But anytime there was a moment that had me scratching my head, in the next moment, the action or the humor picked back up and reminded me of what a great time I was having. The finale and wrap-up sees some of our beloved Guardians characters headed in different directions. Although some of the reasons for the group's split may seem forced or unearned, it is still a suitable ending for the current makeup of the group. Major character arcs from the previous films have come full circle and provide a satisfying feeling of closure--yet, still leaving the door open for more.  

— 4 / 5 ⭐