James Gunn on Why Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 2 Must Be Different From Original

Guardians of the Galaxy was a big departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe formula, with director James Gunn crafting an oddball sci-fi comedy that became a breakout hit. Given how much of an impact GotG had, it would be understandable if Marvel wanted James Gunn to simply recreate the same audience-pleasing experience for Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 2; however, that’s not going to be the case.

Gunn has been consistent in his declarations that GotGv2 will be its own unique Marvel movie experience – one that’s not beholden to the larger MCU storyline (Thanos) or the legacy of the first film.

Speaking with USA Today recently, Gunn elaborated on why Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 2 should not only be different from the first film but needs to be. According to Gunn, “The first movie was successful because we took chances and gave people the unexpected. This movie can only really be what it is, Guardians can only be what they are, if they’re taking a risk. It means giving them a much different movie.

That is a risky approach, indeed. Guardians was already an unlikely success story that paid off – throwing fans back into that oddball world and having to create an entirely different experience for the audience is like doubling-down on a questionable poker hand.

…Of course, there may be a great method behind Gunn’s madness. He may be correct in his assessment that creating the “authentic” Guardians of the Galaxy experience requires that risky, out-of-the-box approach. Watching the sequel follow through the motions of the first film would probably leave fans underwhelmed and unsatisfied.

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Set to the backdrop of ‘Awesome Mixtape #2,’ Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the team’s adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics will come to our heroes’ aid as the Marvel cinematic universe continues to expand.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is written and directed by James Gunn (Slither). The film marks the return of the original Guardians, including Chris Pratt (Jurassic World) as Peter Quill/Star-Lord; Zoe Saldana (Star Trek Into Darkness) as Gamora; Dave Bautista (Spectre) as Drax; Vin Diesel (Furious 7) as the voice of Groot; Bradley Cooper (American Sniper) as the voice of Rocket; Michael Rooker (Jumper) as Yondu; Karen Gillan (The Big Short) as Nebula; and Sean Gunn (Gilmore Girls) as Kraglin. New cast members include Pom Klementieff (Oldboy), Elizabeth Debicki (The Great Gatsby, Everest), Chris Sullivan (The Knick, The Drop) and Kurt Russell (The Hateful Eight, The Thing).