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

9. It Looks & Sounds Fantastic

"It also shouldn’t be understated that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is as beautiful to look at as the first movie, with its bright, almost psychedelic aesthetic getting some more ‘70s influences this time around...Similarly, Gunn writing the soundtrack into the script makes Awesome Mix Vol. 2 impactful just like its predecessor, and it’s smart he leaned into more obscure hits versus shifting into more well-known pop music." - IGN

"The soundtrack has again been handpicked so brilliantly, with the more energetic numbers creating the backdrop for the big action sequences...Embedded into the narrative, the music is more than just a score – it’s a plot device." - HeyUGuys

"It should be noted that the visuals are astounding, and you should expect to see them on the Academy shortlist when the time comes around. Gunn amps up the candy-colored world he created in the first film into a full-blown cinematic Aurora Borealis of glistening jewel tones and glinting gold...The film doesn’t have any set-pieces as memorable as the prison escape sequence from Guardians, but there’s no denying that Gunn knows his way around genre, and having him behind the camera gives Vol. 2 an edge of exciting showmanship." - Collider

This shouldn't surprise anyone, but it's always nice to know a movie hasn't blown all of its money shots in the marketing. Yes, Guardians 2 is a visual feast, with Gunn serving up some of the MCU's best-looking action to date.

And while he risked repeating the first movie's trick to diminished returns, the second movie's soundtrack has also received strong praise, with some even noting that they couldn't imagine several scenes being set to any different music. Wow.