Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will mark the end of this iteration of the cosmic team of Marvel heroes. Speaking with Deadline’s podcast Hero Nation, director James Gunn, who will helm the final part in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, the upcoming threequel will be the last time audiences see the likes of Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord, Dave Bautista’s Drax, Bradley Cooper and Sean Gunn’s Rocket Raccoon, Zoe Saldana’s Gamora, and Vin Diesel’s Groot unite to save the universe.
Aside from presenting us with this devastating, yet not unsurprising news, Gunn went on to tease the scope and tone of the movie. While the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise has always managed to approach things with a wry, technicolor smile, it sounds like things are about to get real dark.
“This is the end for us, the last time people will see this team of Guardians.”
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James Gunn is feeling the pressure of bringing the journey of this now iconic team of heroes to a satisfying conclusion. But, for what it’s worth, it’s fully aware of audience expectations and sounds ready to tackle them head-on. “I’m aware that the third film in most trilogies sucks; not always,” the filmmaker assured.
“It’s big; it’s so, so big and dark, and different from what people might be expecting it to be. I just want to be true to the characters, the story and give people the wrap-up that they deserve for the story. That’s always a little bit scary; I’m doing my best.”
Guardians of the Galaxy 3 Will Introduce Some New Faces Alongside the Familiar Ones
Marvel Comics
Aside from wrapping up the story of the familiar Guardians of the Galaxy, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will also introduce several new characters. Characters who could have a huge impact on the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe outside of just the upcoming Guardians sequel.
While plot details remain a mystery, it has been revealed that Will Poulter will join the ensemble as Adam Warlock, a powerful warrior sent after the Guardians of the Galaxy by their enemies. Director James Gunn recently teased Poulter’s role in proceedings saying, “Oh, he’s the best. He’s the best. He’s killing it. People are going to really love Adam — or love? They’re going to appreciate Adam Warlock, I’ll say.”
Peacemaker star Chukwudi Iwuji will also have a role in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and while his character remains a closely guarded secret, the actor has offered some intriguing details. “Powerful. Extremely powerful. Complex,” Iwuji said. “James and I were talking about it, but he’s certainly one of, if not the most complex characters we’ve seen in the freaking Marvel universe. So he’s deeply complex and deeply powerful, and I hope intriguing. I hope I bring that to it.”
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is scheduled to be released in the United States on May 5, 2023, as part of Phase Four of the MCU. Thankfully, this will not be the only adventure for the beloved crew, with I Am Groot and The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special also set for Disney+.
