MOVIE REVIEW: GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2

While on the run following a botched heist, the Guardians of the Galaxy encounter a mysterious being known as Ego (Kurt Russell), who claims to be the long-lost father of team leader Peter Quill (Chris Pratt). As Quill learns more about his past, the Guardians battle foes old and new. James Gunn returns to write and direct this installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which also stars Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, and Karen Gillan, and features the voices of Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel. ~ Jack Rodgers, Rovi

Director: James Gunn

Cast: Chris Pratt, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, Zoe Saldana, David Bautista

Release Date: May 05, 2017

Rated PG-13 for language, Brief Suggestive Content, Sequences of Sci-Fi Action and Violence

Runtime: 2 hr. 15 min.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Review:

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 was always going to be a tough task since the first film was so unexpected and incredibly fun.  The sequel faces a Herculean task of expanding and continuing everything that worked in the original.  James Gunn’s follow up is a fun if overly bloated and scattered film.  The film’s plot, which has all the subtly of a sledgehammer, is an overly serious rumination on fatherhood, alienation and family drama.  As a result, some of the pop and chemistry of the original is missing.  There is still plenty to enjoy like the expanded roles for Michael Rooker’s Youdu and Karen Gilligan’s Nebula but its decision to split up the core cast zaps the film of the first film’s fantastic chemistry.  Kurt Russell’s casting seems like a perfect match but the character is strangely undercooked.  Using a living plant as the primary villain means that Russell is left on the sidelines for the better part of the final act which is to the film’s detriment, Elizabeth Debicki golden skinned Ayesha might have made a better villain.  Thankfully the emotional storyline pays off through an unexpected source which works well because it feels organic and earned.  It’s a shame everything doesn‘t feel as fluid and organic.  The sequel could of used some trimming which would have made the clunkiness less noticeable and the film more enjoyable overall. 

B-