A tremendous sequel, in my opinion, whose sole major issue is being a bit predictable. Feeling less overstuffed than the original film, in "Volume 2" the characters get to breathe a lot more. In particular this benefits Yondu, Rocket and, most surprisingly, Nebula, a character who was little more than a shoehorned cameo in the first one. All three of them truly shine in this film, and each of them had at least one moment that made me bawl my eyes out, even during my second watch through. (As what it takes to make someone cry during a film is hugely individual, I can mention for comparison that I think I only got slightly misty a single time in the first film.)

But the rest of the cast is not neglected, and even newcomer Mantis gets a lot of memorable moments. The constant banter is heightened, sure, but in a wonderfully entertaining and often quite touching way. The plot, as mentioned, is a tad predictable, but I found it poignant and effective, and much more streamlined than the convoluted first installment. James Gunn not getting to direct a third film in this series is a travesty, but fingers crossed his script will be enough to carry this level of quality through to the end. ( )

I wasn't overly impressed by the first Guardians film. It was OK but I didn't get the raving about it. I actually enjoyed the second film a lot more. It's just dumb fun and that was OK. ( )

Crisper in story and videography than the first film. Not nearly as clever or endearing. Cheap world building. Stallone - yes. Russell - no. ( )

Peter finds his father and finds that family isn't as easy as it sounds. This had a moment or two that had me feeling that the room was a little dusty. What is family is explored and found to be more complicated than it sounds.

I really enjoyed the watch and I'm looking forward to see how these characters will develop. ( )

Space criminals save the galaxy again.

More of the same of the first movie, which is fine with me.

Concept: B
Story: C
Characters: B
Dialog: B
Pacing: A
Cinematography: B
Special effects/design: A
Acting: B
Music: B

Enjoyment: A

GPA: 3.2/4 ( )