The Single Biggest Mistake Each MCU Film And TV Show Has Made
1. Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3 - Ignoring Much Of What Made The First Two Movies Great
The fact that a mixed bag like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 has still been seen as a triumph is partly a reflection of the movie itself and the things it gets right, but it's also a sad indictment of just how awful things have got for the MCU. Even a three-star, mid-tier entry feels like a relief these days.
GOTG 3 is an impressive movie in certain ways, with its emotional storytelling, beautiful visuals and superb ensemble cast. It is also a massive step-down from the first two movies.
The original and its sequel worked because, as well as being emotional and dramatically refined, they were also hugely funny and thrilling. The third film, on the other hand, is distinctly mediocre in both the action and comedy departments, and as such it can be quite a slog to get through (especially because it's so stupidly overlong). It's the worst of the trilogy by a comfortable margin, and it's unlikely many will feel much of a desire to revisit it in the near future.
Still, given how awful things have gotten for this franchise lately, it's nice to see that once in a while, this brand can still produce successful movies.