After watching Marvel’s latest smash hit, Guardians of the Galaxy, you may discover a little piece of your soul that you haven’t seen in a really long time… a part you may have actually thought died at the hands of one bad superhero film too many (AHEM Amazing Spider-Man 2 AHEMAHEM). Guardians is exactly what it needed to be- bizarre, mold breaking, and most of all, just plain fun. Here are some of the best moments to come out of the film, in no particular order.
Beware spoilers below. Like, this list is literally nothing but spoilers.
Groot’s gasp at Rocket Raccoon’s rudeness. Groot’s so cute, and so innocent, that seeing him so appalled over his furry friend’s not-so-nice outburst is hilarious. Groot is the sweet to Rocket’s Sour Sauce.
Rocket antagonizing an unknowing child. While peeping through some high-tech binoculars, Rocket makes fun of several people, including a toddler he refers to as a “gargoyle”, berating it by saying several things that many of us think about little kids, but are too polite to say. Get a job, kid!
Star Lord’s introduction. The first thing we see of our hero in action is when he puts on his headphones, starts up an awesome tune, and goes dancing away like a goon who doesn’t give the tiniest of poops, kicking nasty space rodents and using one as a pretend mic while singing and dancing his way through some alien ruins. Now when I do this around the house, I’ll feel ten times more awesome.
Drax’s maniacal laugh. As Star Lord, Gamora, and Drax crash land in their ship, Drax gleefully laughs the whole time like he’s having the best day of his life despite the possibility of death, and you can’t help but laugh with him.
Gamora dragging Drax across the floor. It’s a subtle touch, but seeing Gamora dragging an unconscious Drax across the floor shows just how strong she is. In fact, between this, her skills in battle, and her agency/characterization, I think we can actually call Gamora a great female character and not sarcastically refer to her as a “strong female character.”
Mini Groot’s dance. How freaking adorable is mini Groot’s dance at the end of the film!?! I mean JUST LOOK AT HIM.
Drax’s metaphor. Drax takes everything so literally that he often misunderstands what’s going on. One great moment in particular happens after Star Lord tries to explain to Drax that running a finger across your neck is a metaphor for killing someone… So he goes and puts this into practice by killing a baddie while saying “finger across the throat.” He seems so proud as he looks at Star Lord as he says, “Metaphor.” Good job, little buddy! You almost got it.
Ronan the Accuser’s golden tones. Any moment where we get to hear Lee Pace’s low, smooth voice counts as a great moment in my book. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, I love that man’s voice and I could listen to it all day.
Rocket’s vulnerability. Rocket may be hard on the outside, but on the inside he has a soft spot- even if it is very tiny. As the only one of his kind around, he’s sensitive when people slander him by calling him things like rodent and vermin- it reminds him just how alone he is. And with someone like Rocket, it’s nice to know there’s a beating heart under all of that snark and fur.
Gamora Vs. Nebula. These two lethal space ladies throw down hard, and, well, it’s just a damn good fight. ‘Nuff said.
Groot’s big smile. Oh you big lug! Groot can win you over with that big smile of his even after he just tree’d ten baddie to death. He’s so proud of his work.
Peter’s solution to getting an artificial leg. Rocket sends Peter on a mission to get an inmate’s artificial leg as part of their escape from prison, and, rather than try to take it by force like many other heroes would, Peter just sweet talks the guy into handing it over. Pretty sneaky, Star Lord.
Also, I feel like his abs could be their own moment.
Ronan’s demise. First of all, I love how the whole group fights Ronan together- it’s not just our leading man saving the day. Secondly, Peter’s suggestion for a dance off is so amazing and true to his character, and when you factor in everyone else’s different contributions, Guardians of the Galaxy’s final confrontation feels like a uniquely awesome climax befitting such a uniquely awesome film.
If you can’t tell by the long list, Guardians of the Galaxy is hella good. I highly recommend it. Like any film you can find imperfections if you go looking for them, but Guardians is so fun and earnest that any quibbles you have will just melt away into the good vibes.
Action Rating: 5 Little Gargoyles, out of 5!
This is the Action Flick Chick, and you’ve just been kicked in the ass!
