A rag tag group of thieves and mercenaries band together to stop Ronan the Accuser from wiping out a planet of innocent civilians. That was the most dumbed down way to describe this story without betraying any of the nuance or human writing on display here. Guardians of the Galaxy may exist in Marvel’s Cinematic Universe, but it stands entirely on its own two legs, and owns up to the premise of the story as much as it can. It doesn’t shy away from any odd elements it may have, and plays to its strengths. The one thing Marvel has never missed on is it’s casting, and this one may be their strongest yet. The main group is so likable and fun to watch together. My personal favorite is Chris Pratt as Star-Lord, but everyone still brings their all to the roles they’re given. Even Lee Pace, who plays Ronan. There’s a lack of realism to him, but Pace hams it up and has so much fun with the role that it’ll distract you from it all. The lead up to the film had countless doubting the success of it, but when it came out, it was loved by many, and for good reason. The road to Volume 3 begins here, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for it. As it stands, this one will always be a favorite of mine, and I’ll never not have a wonderful time with it.