MOVIE MONDAYS: GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY
I thought my days of watching films like this one were sadly behind me when posters of Guardians of the Galaxy were being put up around town and I didn't feel the usual buzz the would have me camping outside the cinema until the film is released. I am so glad I was wrong. I am not entirely sure why I dragged my feet to go see this film. Maybe it's because I am not a true Marvel fan and so had no idea that this story-line even existed but whatever the reason, I am super duper pleased I still managed to catch this at the pictures. Lets see why shall we?
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Got up Saturday morning with the one task to complete- have an utterly relaxing day- which is why washing my hair was pushed to the bottom of my "Things That Make Me Relax" list. I hadn't been to the cinema in a while so I checked to see what was on and lo and behold, the next showing of Guardians of the Galaxy was at 11.30am. I glanced at my clock which read 10.30am, smiled to myself and took my sweet time getting ready. I got to the screening just in time to find my favourite seat and prep my mind to enjoy the film I was about to see. And boy, did I enjoy it!
Guardians of the Galaxy is a fantastic Marvel film whose story-line and soundtrack is sure to put a whopping big grin on your face. It introduces us to a bunch of intergalactic misfits whose differences and likeness lead them to embark on a memorable, action-packed and hilarious space adventure that ruffles a few feathers. Boy, that is vague... even for me ha! The witty and highly entertaining script was written by Nicole Perlman (Guardians of the Galaxy; Challenger), who is said to be the first female writer of a Marvel film (gasp!) and James Gunn (Slither; Dawn of the Dead; Scooby-Doo). And the highly engaging film was also directed by James Gunn (Movie 43; Super; Slither). I cannot even imagine how Nicole Perlman feels right about now but I think it could be along the lines of her being ecstatic. I know I would be. One aspect of the script that I loved was the way they weaved some classic tunes into the film. Made me giggle many, many times.
Not that one would expect less from Marvel but I have to acknowledge the animation, hair, make-up, costume, set design, VFX and editing teams. Their work was stellar me thinks. Of late, it is like my mind has opened somewhat to see more than the story that is being told and appreciate all the seemingly little things that actually support the entire film and make it real. I guess that is why watching the entirety of the end credits of films fills me with awe. I have still quite a way to go in understanding each part fully but I will get there ;)
Onto the cast! Zoe Saldana (Star Trek Into Darkness; The Words; Colombiana) kicks ass in this film- literally and figuratively. She stars as the passionate yet formidable assassin, Gamora, and is one of the main reasons why I decided to give this film a go as there is no film I've seen her in that I haven't liked... yet(?). The comical, thrill-seeking spacetrotter, Peter Quill was played really well by Chris Pratt (Parks and Recreation; Her; Everwood). Definitely a noteworthy character haha. Ever thought animals were uncool or lacked charisma? Think again. Rocket is a racoon with an edge. After undergoing a few genetically enhancing experiments he turned into a smart-talking genius of a bounty hunter with a wicked sense of humour. The chap who gave Rocket a voice is good ol' Bradley Cooper (American Hustle; The Words; Alias). And the character that will not only make you revel in the beauty and power of nature but also turn into an environment sustainability warden is Groot. He kinda sorta looks like a tree, has Hulk-like tendencies (if you've seen the film, you will know what scene I'm referring to here hehe), is best friends with Rocket, is from a race of walking flora and was played by Vin Diesel (Riddick; Fast and Furious; The Iron Giant). Groot is great! And David Bautista (WWE: Smackdown; Riddick;The Man with the Iron Fists) takes on the role of Drax, a man with some impressive ink who has an axe to grind with a certain villain called Ronan who robbed him of all things he holds dear. There are quite a few other notable characters in this movie but I won't divulge who they are so as not to give too much away as I fear I may have said too much already. Just know that the GotG have a bunch of characters that are worth getting to know a bit better.
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So, if you are staring at the noticeboard in your local cinema contemplating which film to see and your eyes land on the next showing of Guardian and the Galaxy, don't dismiss it without a moment's thought. Especially if you like a bit of action, drama, humour, space and 70's music. Or if you are in the future (Hiya!) and this film has found its way onto Netflix or is now out on DVD, consider giving it a go if you are stuck for something to watch. And please, please, please stick to the end to see the extra clip. It is after all a Marvel film.
Which Marvel film leaves you wishing you were a superhero?
Mo x