Opened: August 1, 2014

Directed by: James Gunn

Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, John C. Reilly, Glenn Close, Benicio del Toro, Josh Brolin, Sean Gunn, Alexis Denisof, Ophelia Lovibond, Peter Serafinowicz, Gregg Henry, Laura Haddock, Wyatt Oleff, Melia Kreiling, Christopher Fairbank & Stan Lee

Giving us the first superhero team from Marvel outside of the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy has a different vibe than its predecessors and leans in its comedy.

Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) is sent to collect an orb that contains an Infinity Stone, which is wanted by Ronan the Accuser (Lee Pace). After an attack lands them in prison, Peter teams up with Gamora (Zoe Saldaña), Drax (Dave Bautista), Rocket (Bradley Cooper) and Groot (Vin Diesel) to fight Ronan.

From the moment the adult Peter is introduced, you can tell this is a lighter film. Groot, Rocket and Drax all bring great comedic elements and will have you laughing as much as you’re awed by the action. Meanwhile, Pace is an incredible villain whose voice will shake you to your core.

Final say: A breath of fresh air for Marvel. ★★★★★