Guardians of the Galaxy, directed by James Gunn, is freakin’ awesome and incredibly fun. Every review about this movie should start off with that sentence because there is just no other way to describe it. It is tonally different from the other Marvel films, while also encompassing all the best parts of its predecessors, such as the humor of Iron Man, the heart of Captain America, and the… ahem… hotness of Thor. It’s not that the Marvel Cinematic Universe needed to be refreshed, but any sort of break from the typical superhero format is always welcome. Guardians of the Galaxy is the definition of an entertaining summer movie. How could anyone not like it?
Music is a main character in Guardians of the Galaxy, and one of my favorite aspects of the film. Think of the film’s soundtrack as a “Now That’s What I Call Music: The 1970s” compilation! Music was also reflected in the comics, as Rocket the Raccoon (voiced by Bradley Cooper) was named after the Beatles’ song “Rocky Raccoon”. So, with that said… what kind of article would this be if we didn’t highlight some of the best songs from the film?
“Hooked On A Feeling” by Blue Swede
When it was used in the film: “Hooked On A Feeling” was used prominently in the Guardians of the Galaxy trailer to advertise the different tone of the movie (as opposed to the other Marvel films). In the film itself, it was used after the Guardians are imprisoned. Peter finds that his Walkman is being used by a guard, who is enjoying this song (how could he not).
Other memorable use in a film: I would be doing a disservice to humanity if I did not include the David Hasselhoff version of this song somewhere in this article. You will not regret clicking that link.
“I’m Not In Love” by 10cc
When it was used in the film: The very first scene in Guardians of the Galaxy… a young Peter sits by his mother’s hospital bed. This shows how important music is in Peter’s life, it was the last thing he and his mother really shared, and how important it will be in augmenting every scene. Before his mother’s death, she gives him a small, wrapped present, which he doesn’t open until the end of the movie. Could the mysterious gift contain more music?!
Other memorable use in a film: Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason
“Come And Get Your Love” by Redbone
When it was used in the film: Our first introduction to adult Peter Quill aka Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) and the fun, humorous tone of the film (following the sad hospital scene)! Peter rocks out to “Come and Get Your Love” as he explores a planet looking for a mysterious orb… and kicking endemic animal species.
Other memorable use in a film: The Postman
“Escape (The Pina Colada song)” by Rupert Holmes
When it was used in the film: The big prison break scene! Prosthetic legs were not harmed in the making of this scene.
Other memorable use in a film: The Sweetest Thing, Wanted
“Fooled Around and Fell In Love” by Elvin Bishop
When it was used in the film: When Peter was trying to get Gamora (Zoe Saldana) to open up to him, let down her defenses, and dance. This isn’t Footloose after all!
Other memorable use in a film: Boogie Nights (NSFW)
“Cherry Bomb” by The Runaways
When it was used in the film: When the Guardians are training/slo-mo walking before the big battle scene.
Other memorable use in a film: The Runaways
“Ooh Child” by The Five Starships
When it was used in the film: Peter utilized this song to distract Ronan the Destroyer (Lee Pace) during the big, climactic battle scene.
Other memorable use in a film: Boyz In Tha Hood, Riding In Cars With Boys
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
When it was used in the film: The very first track on Awesome Mix 2. Peter finally gets the entire crew to dance!
Other memorable use in a film: Stepmom
“I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5
When it was used in the film: Baby Groot dances to this song while sitting in a pot. Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel) isn’t dead!
Other memorable use in a film: Now and Then
My review of the movie AND soundtrack: A
