Writer/director James Gunn returns to the Guardians of the Galaxy to deliver the grand, celebratory finale that we’ve all been waiting for. 

The Marvel superhero movies have been very entertaining and popular over the past decade, perhaps none more so than the Guardians of the Galaxy series. These space-based misfits have earned their place in all of our hearts, and now they’ve earned a whole and hearty farewell. “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” ends the series with big adventure, big energy and big emotions.

I’m going to miss this series, but gosh darnit, they go out with style.

After a major attack on the team from an old enemy, Rocket is gravely injured, and the rest of the Guardians must head out into the galaxy to discover where Rocket came from and how to save him. It’s not for the faint of heart. Bring tissues. 

The Guardians of the Galaxy are fan favorites who have been through the wringer, whether in their own movies or crossing over with the Avengers. It’s been six years since “Vol. 2,” and a lot has changed for these characters. But the heart, soul and humor are as strong as ever, and all are on full display in this threequel.

“Vol. 3” works best as a continuation and finale for this series. The story is all about Rocket, a much-loved character. We learn where he comes from. We see what horrors he went through in his youth. And having the emotional connection from multiple previous movies helps heighten the emotion in his big scenes.

Likewise, the found family aspect of the Guardians is as strong as ever. We care about these characters and what they’re going through. And writer/director James Gunn leaves nothing on the table. He’s here to push our emotions to the brink, on both ends of the happy-to-sad spectrum. Rocket’s origin story is a sad one, but the Guardians as a team are joyful.

The movie roller coasters between those two extremes in a lot of great ways, so be prepared to feel the full gamut of your feelings.

Beyond the emotional stuff, “Volume 3” is just plain fun. The humor and the choice musical cues are back and great, and it’s really just one big adventure. The Guardians visit several different planets on their journey, each one weirder than the last. There are a lot of big action scenes, and death-defying stunts.

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is a lot. And it’s long. Normally that might be a hindrance for a film, but since that length is filled with more of the Guardians having a grand time, it was easily forgiven.

Just know that you’re in for a big, long, fun ride with this series finale. And if you’ve been a fan of these characters and these movies all along, know that the series goes out on a high note.

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” is currently playing in theaters and is not yet available to watch at home.

For more discussion of the film, tune in to the Sentinel Cinema podcast.

And if you have any questions or movie review recommendations, write us at: cinema@rnymedia.com.