Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

Introduction
"Guardians of the Galaxy" is a 2014 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics superhero group of the same name. Directed by James Gunn and produced by Marvel Studios, the movie is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie boasts an ensemble cast that includes Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, John C. Reilly, Glenn Close, and Benicio Del Toro. The story follows a not likely group of heroes who must unite to save the galaxy from an effective bad guy and his effective weapon.

Plot Summary
The movie starts on Earth in 1988 with the kidnapping of young Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) by Yondu Udonta (Michael Rooker) and his Ravagers soon after the death of Peter's mother. Fast forward to present day, we find Peter, now called Star-Lord, looking for an ancient artifact, the Orb, on earth Morag. Unbeknownst to him, Ronan the Accuser (Lee Pace) likewise wants this artifact, and he sends his assassin, Gamora (Zoe Saldana), to obtain it.

On the other hand, 2 fugitive hunter, Rocket (Bradley Cooper), a genetically-engineered raccoon, and Groot (Vin Diesel), a humanoid tree, are likewise in pursuit of Peter for the bounty on his head. When their paths cross on world Xandar, they are apprehended by the Nova Corps and sent to a high-security jail called the Kyln. Inside the jail, they satisfy Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista), a warrior seeking revenge versus Ronan for the death of his family. They choose to sign up with forces and get away from the Kyln to sell the Orb and split the profit.

However, upon finding the true power of the Orb, which includes an Infinity Stone that has the potential to erase an entire planet, the group decides they should keep it away from Ronan. They take a trip to Knowhere, a criminal station built in the severed head of a celestial being, to seek the aid of The Collector (Benicio del Toro). The Collector discusses the history and effectiveness of the Infinity Stones, but his assistant unintentionally activates a surge by touching the Orb.

During the chaos, Ronan shows up, takes possession of the Orb, and kidnaps Gamora. The group, now joined by Nebula (Karen Gillan), Gamora's sibling, resolves to deal with Yondu and his Ravagers to stop Ronan from damaging Xandar. They form a plan to breach Ronan's ship and damage it prior to Ronan can utilize the Infinity Stone.

Conclusion and Reception
In an epic end of the world, the Guardians, together with Yondu's help, handle to retrieve the Orb. Star-Lord sidetracks Ronan, providing Rocket sufficient time to damage Ronan's weapon, but the Infinity Stone is exposed while doing so. Star-Lord handles to grasp the stone, and, with the assistance of Gamora, Drax, and Groot, they use its power to ruin Ronan. They then hand the stone over to the Nova Corps for safekeeping.

Yondu phonies taking the Infinity Stone from Peter to maintain his standing with his crew while allowing the Guardians to get away. As the film ends, we see Peter finding a message from his mother, exposing that his daddy was an ancient being, therefore describing his capability to hold the Infinity Stone. The Guardians then triggered to search for Peter's daddy and embark on new experiences.

"Guardians of the Galaxy" was a big business success, earning over $773 million around the world and getting widespread critical acclaim for its humor, cast efficiencies, direction, visuals, and soundtrack. It was applauded for its distinct take on the superhero genre and for producing bold, unconventional heroes. The movie's success caused a sequel, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2", launched in 2017, and the involvement of the Guardians team in subsequent Avengers films.

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