Before Avengers: Endgame arrives next week, let’s revisit the 7 essential MCU movies you should rewatch before the Infinity Saga comes to a close…
What’s it about? Out in space, a gang of outlaws are after a highly-valuable trinket known as the Orb – the trouble is it’s actually an extremely dangerous weapon also sought after by the most dangerous man in the galaxy. It looks like these unlikely heroes will have to be the ones to guard it.
Why is it essential? Guardians of the Galaxy marked a huge turning point for the MCU, as it proved that a totally out-there movie based on D-list comics characters could still become a barn-storming success. In terms of arc importance, this is the first film to define the Infinity Stones and features the second appearance of Thanos, as well as his two daughters who will prove intrinsic to both Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame.
Why is it worth re-watching? Its villain and the “shiny suitcase/Ark of the Covenant/Maltese Falcon” plot might feel familiar, but James Gunn brings a unique sensibility to the table that really ensures the films soars. The humor, the music and the action are all great, but I personally love that the Guardians feel like a genuine family and that’s what’s made them so popular with fans.
What’s the best scene? Much like The Avengers, Guardians has so many hilarious or exhilarating moments that it’s tough to pick one. As I say, it’s the characters’ unlikely familiar love that I really respond to so the bit that always gets me is Groot’s noble sacrifice. It’s a truly beautiful scene that somehow makes us cry for a tree that can only say three words. Well, he learns two more in this scene.
What should I watch out for? Gamora’s mugshot when she’s arrested by the Nova Corps says she’s “the last of the Zenhoberei.” However, Infinity War states that Thanos only wiped out half of her people. Marvel’s usually pretty good at upholding its canon but it looks like this is one plot hole that slipped through.
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