It may even seem obvious: before watching the third film in a series, it is important to see the previous two to understand their story. However, when it comes to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, things aren’t always that simple. After all, with interconnected productions and nearly 30 feature films already released, many storylines permeate several franchises. It is the case of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3to which the story is connected Avengers: Finalefor example, among other productions.
Below, we comment on what are the essential films to watch before checking out the outcome of the trilogy, as well as its main events. And we also list feature films that have characters, but are not essential to understanding Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
The indispensable films of the Guardians of the Galaxy saga
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
The team of space anti-heroes were unknown to the general public before the film’s release. The production is from when Marvel Studios had not yet recovered the film rights of the most famous teams, such as the X-Men or the Fantastic Four. Even without prior fame, the team made up of outcasts – including a tree and a talking raccoon – won over good audiences and became a favorite in theaters.
In Guardians of the Galaxy, we are introduced to Peter Quill, Gamora, Groot, Rocket and Drax, as well as Nebula, who later also joins the team. It’s an origin story, which while it doesn’t delve into everyone’s past, does introduce each character well. Furthermore, the plot is part of the first major saga of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with another chapter related to the villain Thanos.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
Admittedly, the sequel doesn’t advance much of the Guardians’ story and, to some, isn’t nearly as good as the first. Even in the context of the Thanos saga there are no news. Regardless, volume 2 has important happenings for the group. Focusing on Peter Quill, or Star Lord as he likes to be called, revealed more of his past than himself, including the cosmic origin of his father, Ego.
It is also in this film that we have the introduction of a new member, the telepathic Mantis, and the entry of Nebula into the group. However, there is an evolution in Peter and Gamora’s relationship, as well as a maturation of the team, which definitely feels like a family. The script still carries the death of a major character in the series, Yondu, which results in one of the most emotional endings to a Marvel film.
Another crucial point is in one of the post-credit scenes. Priestess Ayesha, who appeared at the beginning of the film, creates Adam Warlock, a warrior with a mission to put an end to the Guardians. He, by the way, is inside vol. 3.
Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
Even though it’s an Avengers movie, this is a movie of all the Marvel heroes in theaters. And since the narrative is almost entirely set in space, the Guardians of the Galaxy figure prominently Avengers: Infinity War. Coming from a more isolated core, the Guardians interact for the first time with other Earth heroes such as Iron Man and Doctor Strange.
Of this interaction with the other characters, the most prominent is with Thor, who ends up becoming a temporary member of the team. Including, the Guardians appear in the fourth God of Thunder movie. However, Infinity War is above all a story steeped in tragedy. And one group is particularly affected: Gamora, the daughter of Thanos, is sacrificed by her father so that she can obtain one of the Infinity Stones.
In addition to death, we also see flashback of Gamora’s childhood, including when she was adopted by Thanos.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
If Gamora is dead infinite war it seemed the farewell of the character, here is his return. At least in part. This is because the story involves several time travels and Gamora from the past ends up arriving in the present. However, it’s not the Gamora we know, but a version prior to meeting the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Because of this, this Gamora’s meeting with Peter Quill and the others isn’t exactly amicable, and she has no recollection of a relationship with Star-Lord. After all, in your original reality, this never happened. This event is also important for the development of the vol. 3as the group is looking for her, who escapes at the end of Ultimatum.
Movies that don’t matter as much for the timeline
Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
The Guardians’ participation here is yet another case of luxe supporting actors. It works more with a result of Thor’s collaboration with the group, which began in infinite war. The team appears only in the first act of the film, and then goes in search of Gamora.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Christmas Special (2022)
The first Marvel film released only on the Disney+ platform, the Guardians special is a closed story, a separate adventure in the journey of the characters. The film takes place after the events of Ultimatum comes from Thor: love and thunder, and shows the team trying to lift Peter Quill’s spirits by planning a Christmas surprise.
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Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
