Right from the start I realize that my interest in this film lies in its theoretical condition as the end point of a trilogy. The MCU creates a certain distance for me as my intermittent interest in it depends on what each installment offers me. To the point that he hasn’t seen among many other films or series, which seems to be clear to everyone, was the (double) climax that took place between the second and third parts of this supposed trilogy. Which, to be honest, doesn’t really interest me that much either: the appeal of the “Guardians” still lies in some characters with whom, like old friends, it doesn’t take more than five minutes to reconnect.
It’s easy to sympathize with this motley crew of confident heroes. And it’s also very easy to let go and enjoy your adventures. Too bad James Gunn likes excess and overloaded elements, and Marvel Studios likes anything with special effects and saving the world. It’s also a shame that it’s a $250 million blockbuster attached to a PG-13 superhero franchise. But above all, it’s a shame that Gunn and Marvel feel so comfortable in this context. Three films, and for all their merits, which are not few, I think these characters could have meant a lot more with less condescension to this world.
It happened in the first two, and it’s happening again in this third: the best moments coincide with those when the characters speak and the action takes a backseat. If it focuses on them one way or another, as a group and not as heroes. At least it gets complicated and even relaxes, the spark arises almost organically and naturally. Too many elements pile up in Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 to not pay proper attention to all of them. This adds to the unnerving sense of harsh, cracked grittiness that devours four-hour blockbusters crammed into a two-and-a-half container.
The worst suffers Will Poulter and his Adam Warlock, a character who ends up becoming redundant. We also have cameos like those of Sylvester Stallone, Nathan Fillion or of course Jennifer Holland, which seem whimsical and irrelevant. Because they are. Or the vice of accompanying all transitions with songs in order to sell a CD. Or a subplot that greets and then points to nothing without saying goodbye. Or, of course, the indiscriminate abuse of special effects, which, on the other hand, is inherent in this type of production. Little things that erode the satisfaction and cause a certain instability, but which in any case doesn’t detract from the enjoyment of the film.
And also more consistent than the previous two installments, which went from more to less clearly. Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 is more consistent from start to finish, and while there’s a lot that could be polished along the way, James Gunn’s brown charm and cinematic humor remain fresh and efficient. A charm with its small heart that also goes very well with some characters who, in turn, go very well with those who interpret them. Everyone has their moments and reasons for being on the field, and while Rocket and Star Lord are the clear protagonists, Gunn distributes the ball well, allowing the teamplay feel to prevail.
Because that’s what it’s all about: appreciating the “guardians”, the “guardians”. However, you have to overlook a lot or face a hateful but not very intimidating villain. And it so happens that the film is far from perfect, just like the previous two. But his shortcomings, once he rests a little, end up being largely buried by the good vibes, Gunn’s love for his starting team, and the tiny bit of emotion that brings with it “a final chapter,” well spun, as the Fall is capable of truly seducing and even penetrating a reluctant non-fan like yours. Because remember, I don’t feel particularly connected to this cinematic universe.
And yet, however it may seem from this text or I didn’t enjoy it unconditionally, I ended up going through the hoop and accepting his warm hug as if he were a family member. Not that it’s the best of the three. Maybe or maybe not, it doesn’t matter. Is it that it satisfactorily concludes a “theoretical” trilogy, reassessing it as a whole and making that journey for now? and anyway?, was it worth it. And by far. More movies and fewer Christmas specials.
By Juan Pairet Iglesias
@Wanchopex
