“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is a hilarious, heartfelt second chapter.
“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is already a huge hit at the box office worldwide and it’s easy to see why. Marvel Studio’s 2015 predecessor established a raucous, yet character-driven superhero franchise that was equal parts snark and heart. Now director/writer James Gunn has done it again with this sharply conceived sequel. He honors the comic book source material, raises the adventure stakes, and expands each character. Gunn even gives each one of his secondary characters a lot to do, including standout turns by Karen Gillan, Elizabeth Debicki, Michael Rooker, and new-to-the-franchise Kurt Russell. Most impressive is how Gunn incorporates old school shtick and repetition to make the gags even funnier, as well as how he creates genuine pathos throughout. This tent pole is chock full of both hilarity and heart.