Guardians of the Galaxy has already concluded, but if you’re still hooked on a feeling and high on believing, there’s more of the dysfunctional superhero team to watch. Because contrary to popular belief, there are more than three Guardians of the Galaxy movies. If you disagree with that, then I am Groot!โthat’s all.
Okay, fine, there are only three mainline Guardians of the Galaxy movies; however, that doesn’t take into account the holiday special and mini-series. Moreover, the Guardians of the Galaxy themselves appear in several other MCU films with rather substantial roles.
For the record, you can just watch these three Guardians of the Galaxy movies in order and not miss much:
- Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
Those are what you can consider as Guardians of the Galaxy movies since they’re all feature-length. However, we’re gonna cheat a bit (or a lot), and we’ll be recommending you all media involving the live-action adaptation of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
The Guardians’ Cinematic Odyssey
Here are all the films that involve the Guardians of the Galaxy, and if you want a particular watch order, even if you’re new to these guys, then you can also follow this.
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
It all began with this film, which introduced us to this ragtag bunch of heroes. Released in 2014, it was a breath of fresh air in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), and it’s where the journey of this iconic team truly commenced.
Here, Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, assembles a group of unlikely allies to thwart the villainous Ronan’s quest for the Power Stone. Little did we know, this was just the start of their epic and (in equal measure) wacky saga.
I Am Groot (2022)
Following their debut, the Guardians were involved in an unexpected appearance in a series of shorts called I Am Groot. These shorts, set after the first movie, follow Baby Groot’s early adventures, offering a charming and delightful detour from the main storyline.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
In 2017, we got the sequel, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Set shortly after the first film, this installment delves deeper into the characters’ backgrounds and relationships, with a focus on Peter Quill’s complicated relationship with his celestial father, Ego.
It also introduced the empathic Mantis to the group, adding another member to their already blunderous but somehow lucky team. She’s every bit of a lovable idiot as they are (except for Gamora).
Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
The Guardians joined forces with the Avengers in the epic crossover movie Avengers: Infinity War. Here, they played a crucial role (with a disastrous outcome) in the battle against Thanos, whose quest for the Infinity Stones threatened the entire universe.
This film marked a significant moment in the Guardians’ journey and cemented their place in the larger MCU. They also saved Thor and got involved with the God of Thunder.
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
The aftermath of Infinity War led to Avengers: Endgame.
In this movie, the remaining Guardians, Rocket, and Nebula, teamed up with the Avengers again in a desperate attempt to reverse the devastating effects of Thanos’ snap. It also introduced a time-displaced Gamora into the mix, setting the stage for future developments.
Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)
Thor temporarily joined the Guardians in Avengers: Endgame, and this dynamic continued in Thor: Love and Thunder. The film opened with Thor adventuring with the Guardians, showcasing their entertaining interactions.
However, their paths quickly diverged after the intro when a new cosmic threat emerged, leading Thor on a personal journey while the Guardians continued their cosmic protector duties. You don’t have to watch the rest of the film, especially if you’re only here for the Guardians.
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)
In a heartwarming and timely holiday special, the Guardians took a break from their cosmic misadventures to celebrate Christmas and provide fans with some seasonal cheers.
While it was a fun diversion, it also set the transition for their new role as protectors of Knowhere. You’re not missing much by skipping this Holiday Special, but it’s still a good bridge for the introductory events of the third and final film.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)
The Guardians’ journey came full circle with Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
This movie marks the grand finale for this team iteration, with new challenges and adventures on the horizon.
While this might be the end for this lineup, the Guardians’ legacy in the MCU is sure to live on since there’s still a team, albeit with half of the original members gone, replaced by new faces.
The Future of the Guardians
While Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 marks the end of this particular Guardians lineup, again, it doesn’t spell the end for the team as a whole. James Gunn, the mastermind behind the Guardians’ cinematic success, has hinted at future MCU projects involving the team.
The next outing might not be Guardians of the Galaxy movies again, as Disney and the MCU seem to be intent on porting over some of their smaller projects to series in the Disney+ streaming service.
Still, it’s all the same epic fun, and in the off-chance that you don’t like that, we have something to say to you: I am Groot.