Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Remarkably, given the studio brand: this is absolutely Gunn's movie. It's cheerfully gross, frequently hideous to behold, nakedly emotional, indulgent to the point of bloat in its desire to tie off every narrative thread...and, happily, its own thing.

While better than most recent Marvel or DC films, it definitely lacks the fun, buddy-film aspects and sincere relationships of the original in lieu of an exhausting mission-based story.

Completes Rocket’ transformation from a footnote to one of Marvel’ greatest characters.

Too often it feels like James Gunn made a playlist of songs he likes and then came up with scenes to go with them.

Guardians 3 is a real warm and fuzzy movie that sometimes makes you forget that you’re a bit bored with the onslaught of superhero movies.

Be forewarned, it’s a slog for the first 90 minutes of its 2h 30m length. Then real energy kicks in.

In the heart of one of the most carefully micro-managed, corporatised franchises in contemporary media, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Gunn and company... have managed to make three consecutive films that feel earnestly personal.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 is a FANTASTIC send off to one of the MCU's best trilogies! The Rocket-centric story hits every target it aims for in your heart. The themes of friendship, family and sacrifice shine brightly even amidst the stunning visuals.

There's a lot of tough love on display due to the fallout of everyone being a raw nerve. They won’t all remember what was spoken, but those who must remember will. That goes for us too since this trilogy capper is as much a beginning as it is an ending.

Lacks the humor and the heart of the first two.