Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2: 12 Critical Reactions You Need To Know

12. The Cast Chemistry Isn't As Strong This Time

"While Vol. 2 does a good job of earning their group arc, the journey there involves splitting up the team for their own personal missions...As such, the wonderful chemistry that drove the first film is diminished a bit here." - IGN

"The idea of splitting [Gunn's] ensemble in two and sending each half to a distant part of the universe, however, feels like an odd choice – why sacrifice story for character if the characters don’t get to be together?" - The Wrap

"Most of these maverick mercenaries prove rather less charming the second time around; they're like bickering family now and not in an amusing way. For starters, some of the characters who, at first exposure, were ingratiating in part because of their rough edges have now turned downright ornery and not much fun to be around." - The Hollywood Reporter

Numerous critics have questioned James Gunn's decision to split the Guardians up for so much of the movie, as this apparently encroaches upon the delirious chemistry that helped make the first film such a hit.

The charm factor seems to be dialed back somewhat, and while the central players are still largely praised, the crackling synergy of the first go-around isn't replicated as much as fans may expect.