The original Guardians of the Galaxy was released to widespread acclaim by critics and audiences alike for the brand of humor and story that greatly expands upon the Marvel Cinematic Universe future plans for the culmination of the Marvel’s grand cinematic plan, Avengers: Infinity War. GotG was responsible for the acceleration of Chris Pratt’s career from perpetual nobody to star overnight making at least two films per year.

Director James Gunn is back at the helm for this next incarnation of our highly unlikely team. Gunn prior to Guardians was “famous” for Super, an R-rated comedy about an everyman transforming himself into a superhero called Crimson Bolt. Guardians Vol. 2 follows Peter Quill as he is reunited with his father, Ego The Living Planet (Kurt Russell) and has to fend off all kinds of monstrous abominations of nature. Throughout the film, we also see the relationship from estranged sisters Nebula (Karen Gillan) and Gamora (Zoe Saldana) develop as well. There is even a hint of a romantic side stemming from Drax and a new character. In fact, Guardians Vol.2  does have a twist audiences are not expecting.

Vol. 2 is extremely similar to the original, but what it does excel at is the character development. Audiences get a much more fleshed out Yondu Udonta (Michael Rooker), Nebula, Kraglin (Sean Gunn), and even more. With these well written characters we get great performances from Elizabeth Debicki (Ayesha), Chris Pratt (Star-Lord), and Michael Rooker (Yondu Udonta) to name a few. The one other thing that Guardians excels at that towers above the rest is the humor. With a mix of childish and improvisational comedy you have the winning formula for $1 billion, but at moments in Vol. 2, the comedy seems forced and simply unfunny. Conversely, there are places where the comedy or action is unparalleled.

In conclusion, Vol.2 is a superb sequel, but when it comes to expanding and making the overall experience more satisfying, it’s basically the same movie which is not a bad thing. It was still very enjoyable viewing. With a confirmed Vol. 3 on the way, and being currently at the top of the box office with a worldwide gross of $431 million, the Guardians of the Galaxy train is in full motion. Seemingly holding the key to comedic and film success, we will be watching Guardians of the Galaxy for years to come.

Madisonian Grade: B+