Funko Rock Candy Vinyl Figure Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 “Mantis” TCN
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Introducing the Funko Rock Candy Vinyl Figure Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2 “Mantis” TCN!
Mantis, the lovable and quirky character from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2, is now available as a Rock Candy vinyl figure from Funko. Standing at 5 inches tall, Mantis is depicted in her signature outfit and pose, ready to join your collection of Guardians of the Galaxy memorabilia.
Whether you’re a fan of the movies or just love collecting Funko figures, this Mantis Rock Candy vinyl figure is a must-have for any Guardians of the Galaxy enthusiast. Add her to your shelf today and bring a touch of intergalactic charm to your space!
The Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy has been one of the MCU’s most unique and beloved offerings, but movies did squander several classic characters. Blending quirky humor, emotional depth, and cosmic spectacle, James Gunn managed to turn a group of relatively obscure comic book characters into household names. However, not every character received the treatment they deserved. Across all three films, several intriguing and potentially important characters were either relegated to the background, mishandled, or outright wasted.
Marvel Comics boasts a vast universe filled with complex characters and intricate storylines. Translating these to the MCU timeline often involves adaptation choices, including condensing story arcs and redefining roles. While the Guardians of the Galaxy films have delivered some incredible character moments, they’ve also missed opportunities to elevate certain individuals. Some of these characters have rich comic book histories, while others were portrayed by renowned actors who weren’t given the material to shine – though some of these could be rectified in the MCU’s future.
10
Ego Should Have Been A Much Cooler Villain
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Ego the Living Planet, played by Kurt Russell, had all the ingredients of a phenomenal villain. In the comics, Ego is a cosmic entity with unfathomable power, embodying the grandeur and strangeness of Marvel’s cosmic tales. His potential to explore deep philosophical questions about creation, existence, and godhood was immense. However, the film reduced Ego to a rather predictable villainous archetype.
Ego’s motivations – spreading his essence across the universe – felt clichéd and lacked the nuance needed for a character of such scale. Kurt Russell’s charm and charisma were evident, but the script didn’t allow him to fully explore the complexities of Ego. Instead of being a multi-dimensional antagonist, he became a generic megalomaniac, undercutting what could have been one of the MCU’s most compelling villains. Ego’s wasted potential remains one of the trilogy’s biggest disappointments.
9
Stakar Ogord Squandered Sylvester Stallone
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 & Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
Sylvester Stallone’s inclusion as Stakar Ogord, also known as Starhawk, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 was an exciting nod to the original Guardians from the comics. As one of the leaders of the Ravagers, Stakar had the potential to become a key figure in the film, especially considering his rich comic book history as a founding member of the Guardians. Unfortunately, Stallone’s role was disappointingly brief. His short appearance established some Ravager lore and hinted at his team’s potential, but it largely went nowhere.
It seemed like he was being set up for a larger role in the future, but his appearance in GOTG Vol. 3 was even shorter, Stallone’s star power and gravitas were underused, and the character’s significance to the broader narrative was minimal. Audiences were left wondering why an actor of his caliber was brought in only to be sidelined. With more screen time, Stakar could have added depth to the Ravagers and enriched the trilogy’s cosmic world-building.
8
Glenn Close’s Nova Prime Wasted Her Potential
Guardians Of The Galaxy
In Guardians of the Galaxy, Glenn Close portrayed Irani Rael, the Nova Prime of Xandar. As the leader of the Nova Corps, Rael should have been a prominent figure, given her position and the Corps’ importance in Marvel Comics. The Nova Corps is a cornerstone of Marvel’s cosmic universe, and Irani Rael had the potential to be a powerful and commanding presence.
However, despite Glenn Close’s immense talent, her character was reduced to a supporting role with little depth. Rael’s main purpose was to provide exposition and react to the threat of Ronan. Her potential as a leader or as a character with her own agency was never fully realized. Considering the actress’s pedigree, this was a significant missed opportunity. Though Nova Prime did return in What if…?, Close sadly did not voice the multiversal variant.
7
High Priestess Ayesha Was Reduced To A Plot Device
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 & Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
High Priestess Ayesha, played by Elizabeth Debicki, was introduced in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 as the leader of the Sovereign. In the comics, Ayesha (also known as Her or Kismet) is a genetically engineered being with immense power and deep ties to Adam Warlock, a key figure in Marvel’s cosmic stories. While Debicki delivered an imposing and regal performance, Ayesha was ultimately relegated to a secondary role.
By Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Ayesha served primarily as a plot device to set the Sovereign against the Guardians and introduce Adam Warlock. This simplification robbed Ayesha of her comic book complexity and potential as a powerful, morally ambiguous force in the MCU. Instead of developing her further, the film treated her as little more than a catalyst for conflict, squandering Debicki’s talent and the character’s rich narrative possibilities.
6
John C. Reilly’s Rhomann Dey Should Have Returned
Guardians Of The Galaxy
John C. Reilly’s Rhomann Dey appeared in the first Guardians of the Galaxy as a Nova Corps officer who played a key role in arresting and later assisting the Guardians. In the comics, Rhomann Dey is a pivotal character, as he is the one who transfers the Nova Force to Richard Rider, transforming him into the superhero Nova. Reilly’s warm and humorous performance made Dey a memorable character, but his absence in the sequels was glaring.
Thanos was the most iconic villain the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s history, but his powers are notably different from his comic book counterpart.
Given the destruction of Xandar by Thanos (mentioned offscreen in Avengers: Infinity War), Dey’s return could have added emotional weight and provided a bridge to introduce Nova. Instead, his potential story arc was abandoned. The omission of Dey from subsequent films felt like a missed chance to further explore the Nova Corps’ significance and set the stage for one of Marvel’s most iconic cosmic heroes.
5
Ronan The Accuser Became A Generic Villain
Guardians Of The Galaxy
Lee Pace’s Ronan the Accuser was the main antagonist in Guardians of the Galaxy. In the comics, Ronan is a complex character with a rich backstory, often portrayed as an anti-hero torn between his loyalty to the Kree Empire and his personal sense of justice. His conflicts with the Guardians and other cosmic heroes are nuanced and layered. The film, however, reduced Ronan to a one-dimensional villain.
Ronan the Accuser’s motivations – a generic thirst for power and destruction under Thanos’s guidance – lacked depth, and his characterization failed to capture the moral ambiguity that makes him so intriguing in the comics. Despite Lee Pace’s commanding performance, Ronan’s potential as a formidable and multi-faceted adversary was wasted. With a stronger script and more focus on his internal struggles, Ronan could have been a much more compelling and memorable villain in the MCU’s cosmic narrative.
4
Korath The Pursuer Was Wasted As A Henchperson
Guardians Of The Galaxy
Djimon Hounsou’s Korath the Pursuer appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy as one of Ronan’s henchmen. In the comics, Korath is a skilled Kree cyber-geneticist who becomes a super-powered warrior. His ties to the Kree Empire and his scientific expertise make him a compelling character with significant narrative potential. In the film, Korath was reduced to a minor antagonist with little to no backstory or development.
Is Guardians of the Galaxy 4 happening? Here is every update and piece of news about the possible MCU movie, including what the story could be.
Djimon Hounsou, a two-time Academy Award nominee, was vastly underutilized in the role, which lacked the complexity and presence his talents deserved. Korath’s reappearance in Captain Marvel added some context to his character, but it still fell short of his comic book potential. With a more substantial role, Korath could have added to the MCU’s Kree storyline and become a more memorable figure in the Guardians series and beyond.
3
Aleta Ogord Was An Early Guardian Of The Galaxy
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
Michelle Yeoh’s Aleta Ogord made a brief appearance in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 as part of Stakar Ogord’s Ravager team. In the comics, Aleta is a member of the original Guardians of the Galaxy from the 31st century. She is a powerful and complex character with light-manipulating abilities and a complicated relationship with her adoptive brother Stakar.
Despite her significance in the source material, Aleta’s role in the film was little more than a cameo. Michelle Yeoh’s immense talent and charisma were barely utilised, and the character’s potential to expand the Guardians’ mythos was overlooked. This was a missed opportunity to introduce a legendary character to a wider audience. Aleta’s inclusion could have connected the movies more strongly to the rich legacy of the Guardians in Marvel Comics, but instead squandered the character and Yeoh’s talent.
2
The Collector Should Have Been More Involved
Guardians Of The Galaxy
Benicio Del Toro’s portrayal of Taneleer Tivan, the Collector, in Guardians of the Galaxy was one of the film’s highlights. As an Elder of the Universe, the Collector is a fascinating character with vast knowledge and connections across the cosmic Marvel universe. His eccentric personality and obsession with rare artifacts make him a unique presence in the comics.
While Del Toro’s performance was memorable, the Collector’s role in the trilogy, and indeed the whole MCU, was disappointingly limited. After his brief appearance in the first film, he was relegated to a minor cameo in Avengers: Infinity War. Considering his significance in the comics and Del Toro’s acting prowess, the character deserved a more substantial role in the MCU. With more screen time, the Collector could have been an intriguing figure, offering insights into Marvel’s cosmic universe.
1
Adam Warlock Was Mostly Pointless
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
Adam Warlock, played by Will Poulter, was one of the most anticipated characters in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. In the comics, Warlock is a central figure in Marvel’s cosmic stories, playing a pivotal role in the Infinity Gauntlet saga and serving as a guardian of cosmic balance. His deep connections to the Soul Gem and the Sovereign made his introduction highly anticipated.
However, the MCU’s portrayal of Adam Warlock was underwhelming. Instead of being the wise and powerful figure many expected, he was depicted as a naïve and immature character still coming into his own. While Poulter delivered a solid performance, the script didn’t allow Warlock to reach his full potential. His role felt more like a comedic side note than the grand cosmic force he is in the comics. Warlock’s introduction deserved greater significance and a more compelling narrative arc in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.
Egotistic loner and “legendary” space pirate Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) falls foul of bounty hunters and his former allies after he steals an orb containing the Power Stone. Chased by Ronan the Accuser, a powerful Kree villain and thrown into an uneasy alliance with a group of similar misfits, he must adapt to his new dynamic or risk everything. He’s joined by gun-toting Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper), treelike-alien Groot (Vin Diesel), Thanos’ daughter Gamora (Zoe Saldana), and the vengeful Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista). Can the galaxy’s most infamous a-holes really save the day?
James Gunn
, Nicole Perlman
, Dan Abnett
, Andy Lanning
Set to the sonic backdrop of Awesome Mix 2, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the adventures of Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Baby Groot as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mystery of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics reappear.
The conclusion to the trilogy, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, will see the Guardians on one final adventure together as they face off with the powerful Adam Warlock – one of the most significant threats the Marvel Cinematic Universe has ever seen. To protect a friend and their world as they know it, Peter Quill and his allies will band together to save one of their own and the galaxy from certain doom.
Release Date
May 5, 2023
Runtime
116 Minutes
Upcoming MCU Movies
Nova Prime – Despite being the leader of the Nova Corps, Nova Prime has minimal screen time and little impact on the overall story.
Yondu’s Ravagers – The Ravagers are a group of space pirates led by Yondu, but they are largely sidelined in the movies and don’t contribute much to the plot.
Aleta Ogord – Aleta is a member of the original Guardians of the Galaxy in the comics, but her character is wasted in the films and doesn’t get much development.
Taserface – Taserface is a villain in the second movie, but his character is one-dimensional and forgettable.
Stakar Ogord – Stakar is another member of the original Guardians of the Galaxy, but his character is underutilized and doesn’t have much impact on the story.
Bereet – Bereet is a love interest for Star-Lord in the first movie, but she is quickly forgotten and doesn’t play a significant role.
Carina – Carina is Thanos’ servant in the first movie, but her character is wasted and she doesn’t get much development.
Howard the Duck – Howard the Duck makes a brief cameo in the first movie, but his character is wasted and doesn’t add much to the story.
Tullk – Tullk is a member of Yondu’s Ravagers, but he is a minor character and doesn’t have much to do.
Mainframe – Mainframe is a member of the original Guardians of the Galaxy, but their character is wasted and doesn’t have much impact on the story.
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Guardians of the Galaxy characters
Marvel movie characters
Wasted characters in Guardians of the Galaxy
Worst characters in Guardians of the Galaxy
Useless characters in Guardians of the Galaxy
Ranking Guardians of the Galaxy characters
Guardians of the Galaxy franchise characters
Disappointing characters in Guardians of the Galaxy
Character analysis in Guardians of the Galaxy movies
When Guardians of the Galaxy debuted in 2014, it was a breath of fresh air for the MCU, but years later certain aspects have not stood the test of time. James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy depicted the eponymous team’s adventures in the MCU timeline. Its irreverent humor, stellar soundtrack, and colorful characters made it an instant fan favorite. However, as time has passed and audience expectations have evolved, certain elements of the Guardians trilogy haven’t aged as gracefully as others.
The first Guardians of the Galaxy movie is widely considered one of the MCU’s best movies to date. It took a group of obscure Marvel characters and turned them into household names. The combination of retro aesthetics, heartfelt storytelling, and ensemble cast dynamics propelled the films to massive critical and commercial success. It was promptly followed by two sequels. However, as with any cultural phenomenon,…
The portrayal of Gamora as a stereotypical "strong female character" who is defined by her physical abilities and not much else.
Drax’s constant jokes about his tragic backstory and inability to understand metaphorical language, which can come off as insensitive or mocking of trauma.
The use of outdated pop culture references that may not resonate with audiences today.
The treatment of Yondu as a lovable rogue despite his abusive behavior towards Peter Quill.
The lack of diversity in the main cast, with the only non-white characters being portrayed as villains or side characters.
The casual use of violence and destruction without much regard for the consequences, which can feel tone-deaf in today’s climate.
The over-reliance on humor and quips to lighten serious or emotional moments, which can undermine the gravity of certain scenes.
The romanticization of toxic relationships, such as the dynamic between Peter Quill and Gamora.
The portrayal of mental illness and trauma as comedic or exaggerated, particularly with characters like Rocket and Drax.
The lack of depth and development for certain characters, such as Nebula and Mantis, who are relegated to supporting roles without much agency or growth.
Tags:
Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel movies, outdated elements, cringeworthy moments, character development, problematic themes, cultural sensitivity, film critiques, fan reactions, movie controversies
When Guardians of the Galaxy debuted in 2014, it was a breath of fresh air for the MCU, but years later certain aspects have not stood the test of time. James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy depicted the eponymous team’s adventures in the MCU timeline. Its irreverent humor, stellar soundtrack, and colorful characters made it an instant fan favorite. However, as time has passed and audience expectations have evolved, certain elements of the Guardians trilogy haven’t aged as gracefully as others.
The first Guardians of the Galaxy movie is widely considered one of the MCU’s best movies to date. It took a group of obscure Marvel characters and turned them into household names. The combination of retro aesthetics, heartfelt storytelling, and ensemble cast dynamics propelled the films to massive critical and commercial success. It was promptly followed by two sequels. However, as with any cultural phenomenon, time and scrutiny reveal flaws that were perhaps overlooked during the initial hype. While the movies excel in creating memorable moments and dynamic characters, some elements come across as tone-deaf or outdated upon reflection.
10
Drax Bullying Mantis In Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
Mantis is introduced in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 as a naïve and trusting empath, a character with a tragic backstory of abuse and isolation. She’s raised by Ego, who takes her from her home planet to serve him as a loyal companion. Her entire life before meeting the Guardians revolves around fulfilling Ego’s needs, calling him “Master” and remaining cut off from any meaningful human connection.
Is Guardians of the Galaxy 4 happening? Here is every update and piece of news about the possible MCU movie, including what the story could be.
Enter Drax. From the moment he meets Mantis, Drax subjects her to relentless verbal abuse, often calling her “ugly” and “disgusting.” He even makes gagging noises when looking at her, a recurring “joke” throughout the film. While Mantis’s obliviousness to Drax’s insults is meant to add humor, it becomes deeply uncomfortable upon closer examination. Mantis’s naivety and history of abuse make her an easy target, and the audience is expected to laugh at her expense. The humor ultimately feels mean-spirited and undermines the character’s potential.
9
Underwhelming Villains In Vol. 1 & 2
Guardians Of The Galaxy & Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
Both Guardians of the Galaxy and its sequel struggled with creating compelling villains. In the first film, Ronan the Accuser is a generic, one-note antagonist whose motivations and personality barely register. Despite Lee Pace’s commanding performance, Ronan’s lack of depth makes him forgettable compared to more nuanced MCU villains like Loki or Killmonger. His sole purpose seems to be to serve as an obstacle for the Guardians, rather than a fully realized character in his own right.
In Vol. 2, Ego the Living Planet fares slightly better thanks to Kurt Russell’s charisma and charm. However, Ego’s motivations feel abstract and poorly developed, centered on an impersonal desire for universal expansion. His grand plan lacks the emotional stakes needed to make him a truly engaging villain. For a series celebrated for its vibrant characters and innovative storytelling, the Guardians films’ inability to deliver memorable antagonists stands out as a glaring flaw that diminishes the overall impact of the stories.
8
Peter Quill’s “Dance-Off” Solution Was Anticlimactic
Guardians Of The Galaxy
The climax of Guardians of the Galaxy hinges on an unconventional resolution: Peter Quill challenging Ronan to a “dance-off” to distract him. While this moment captures the irreverent spirit of the film, it undermines the emotional and narrative stakes built up throughout the story. After an entire movie of dramatic tension and world-building, the payoff feels like a joke that prioritizes humor over meaningful resolution.
What should have been an epic showdown is instead played for laughs, which wasn’t especially satisfying. While the humor worked for many upon the film’s release, subsequent viewings reveal the scene as an anticlimactic conclusion to a high-stakes conflict, reducing the tension in favor of a cheap gag. Moreover, this likewise wasted Ronan further, unable to fully flaunt his fearsome powers. The scene fails to deliver any of the emotional impact expected from a climactic moment, diminishing the film’s overall narrative weight.
7
The Sequels Completely Failed To Recapture The Original’s Magic
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 & Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
The original Guardians of the Galaxy struck a perfect balance between humor, heart, and action, earning its place as one of the MCU’s standout entries. Its charm lay in its unexpectedness – a ragtag group of misfits coming together against all odds, supported by a killer soundtrack and heartfelt character moments. Unfortunately, Vol. 2 and Vol. 3struggled to replicate this magic.
Marvel Studios has recently confirmed the returns of several past MCU heroes, but I’m worried as the Guardians of the Galaxy aren’t among them.
Vol. 2 leaned heavily on sentimentality and humor, often at the expense of cohesive storytelling. The plot meandered, with forced emotional beats that felt unearned. By the time Vol. 3 arrived, the novelty of the Guardians’ antics had worn thin. While both sequels had their highlights, they lacked the spark that made the first film so special. As a result, the trilogy’s later entries feel more like echoes of the original’s brilliance than worthy continuations of its legacy.
6
The Soundtracks Quickly Became Underwhelming
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 & Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
The Guardians films are synonymous with their soundtracks, with the first movie’s mixtape playing a significant role in its charm and identity. Hits like “Come and Get Your Love” and “Hooked on a Feeling” perfectly complemented the story and characters. These tracks felt integral to the narrative, enhancing the film’s emotional resonance and quirky tone. Indeed, the music was an integral part to the movie’s success.
However, the subsequent soundtracks felt increasingly uninspired. While Vol. 2 and Vol. 3 included memorable tracks, the magic of the first mixtape was never fully recaptured. The latter films’ song choices often felt obvious and uninspired. The original brought a good mix of hits and obscure classics. The sequels largely picked random hits from the era rather than carefully curated soundscapes. As a result, the soundtracks, once a defining feature of the franchise, began to feel less like a narrative element and more like a marketing gimmick.
5
Drax Calls Gamora a “Green Whore”
Guardians Of The Galaxy
In the first Guardians film, Drax refers to Gamora as a “green whore” during an argument. While the line is explained in-universe as part of Drax misunderstanding a fellow inmate talking about Gamora, assuming that “Green Whore” was her name or race. However, this is glossed over quite quickly and isn’t made as obvious as it could be. As a result, the insult seems unnecessarily harsh, especially given that it’s aimed at one of the film’s few prominent female characters.
The MCU may have made some controversial decisions to the comic book lore, but some have proven themselves to be an improvement in hindsight.
Gamora’s significance as a strong and capable warrior is undercut by this crude remark, which feels out of place even within the film’s irreverent tone. Even with its contextual justification, this line is an example of how some of the franchise’s humor hasn’t aged well. It clashes with contemporary sensitivities around derogatory language, making it a glaring misstep in an otherwise well-written film.
4
Rocket Raccoon Mocks an Amputee
Guardians Of The Galaxy
Rocket Raccoon’s irreverent humor is one of the defining aspects of his character, but some of his jokes land poorly in hindsight. In the first film, Rocket mocks an amputee, making fun of a fellow prisoner’s prosthetic leg and stealing it because he thought it was funny. While the scene’s humor is rooted in Rocket’s mischievous nature, it’s hard to ignore how mean-spirited it feels upon rewatch.
Indeed, Rocket is pretty mean-spirited throughout all the Guardians movies. This moment be interpreted as an example of Rocket’s internalized ableism, given his own history of physical modification and trauma explored in Vol. 3. However, the amputee joke leans too heavily on cruelty, and feels incongruous with such a sophisticated theme. While the films attempt to show Rocket’s emotional depth later on, moments like this undermine his arc by portraying him as unnecessarily cruel for the sake of a laugh.
3
Yondu’s Fatherhood Flip
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
Yondu’s character arc is one of the most emotional aspects of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, culminating in his heroic sacrifice to save Peter Quill. However, this resolution feels manipulative when contrasted with Yondu’s portrayal in the first film. Initially depicted as an abusive and morally dubious figure, Yondu’s sudden redemption in Vol. 2 feels unearned. His harsh treatment of Peter in the first film, including threats and emotional manipulation, are swept aside in favor of a touching father-son dynamic.
While his sacrifice is an undeniably moving MCU moment, the decision to flip Yondu from antagonist to surrogate father figure seems like an overly convenient way to shoehorn an emotional climax into the narrarive. This transformation, though powerful at the moment, feels rushed, underdeveloped, and overly manipulated to prompt an emotive response from the audience.
2
Thin Female Character Arcs
Guardians Of The Galaxy, Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2, Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
The Guardians are notable for underdeveloped female characters. Gamora, Mantis, and Nebula are all compelling in concept but frequently sidelined in favor of their male counterparts. Gamora’s most significant moments occur in the Avengers films, where her relationships and internal conflicts are explored in greater depth. Meanwhile, Nebula’s complexity isn’t fully realized until later MCU entries, leaving her early appearances feeling shallow.
Mantis, on the other hand, remains a comedic foil with little agency or growth throughout the series, and, if anything, propagates negative stereotypes about women being submissive. Her naivety and obsequiousness are played for laughs, but she’s rarely given the opportunity to evolve as a character. Compared to the depth and development afforded to Peter Quill, Rocket, and Drax, the lack of attention to the Guardians women stands out as a significant shortcoming that undermines the franchise’s otherwise strong ensemble cast.
1
Drax’s Comedy Became Too Over The Top
Guardians Of The Galaxy, Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2, Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3
Drax’s humor in the first Guardiansof the Galaxy is a highlight, with his literal interpretations and deadpan delivery providing a unique comedic angle. However, by the third installment, Drax’s humor had become exaggerated and one-note. His once-subtle comedic timing is replaced by shouting, slapstick, and exaggerated antics that overshadow his character’s original depth.
Between Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment, here is every upcoming Marvel movie release date and what we know about the projects so far.
This shift diminishes the complexity of Drax as a character. In the first film, his humor was contrasted against his tragic backstory and serious demeanor, making it both effective and endearing. By Vol. 3, he’s largely reduced to comic relief, with his more serious traits sidelined. This evolution, or lack thereof, highlights a broader issue with the trilogy’s handling of certain characters, where humor is often prioritized at the expense of narrative and emotional depth. Years later, this aspect of Guardians of the Galaxy has aged particularly badly.
Egotistic loner and “legendary” space pirate Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) falls foul of bounty hunters and his former allies after he steals an orb containing the Power Stone. Chased by Ronan the Accuser, a powerful Kree villain and thrown into an uneasy alliance with a group of similar misfits, he must adapt to his new dynamic or risk everything. He’s joined by gun-toting Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper), treelike-alien Groot (Vin Diesel), Thanos’ daughter Gamora (Zoe Saldana), and the vengeful Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista). Can the galaxy’s most infamous a-holes really save the day?
James Gunn
, Nicole Perlman
, Dan Abnett
, Andy Lanning
Set to the sonic backdrop of Awesome Mix 2, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the adventures of Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Baby Groot as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mystery of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics reappear.
The conclusion to the trilogy, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, will see the Guardians on one final adventure together as they face off with the powerful Adam Warlock – one of the most significant threats the Marvel Cinematic Universe has ever seen. To protect a friend and their world as they know it, Peter Quill and his allies will band together to save one of their own and the galaxy from certain doom.
Release Date
May 5, 2023
Runtime
116 Minutes
Upcoming MCU Movies
The portrayal of Gamora as a love interest rather than a fully developed character with her own agency and motivations.
The use of humor that relies on outdated stereotypes and cultural references.
The lack of diversity in the main cast, with only one person of color (Drax) in a prominent role.
The treatment of Nebula as a one-dimensional villain, instead of exploring the complexity of her relationship with Gamora.
The depiction of Yondu as a flawed father figure who is ultimately redeemed through his sacrifice, without fully addressing the harm he caused.
The use of violence as a punchline, particularly in scenes involving Rocket and Groot.
The romanticization of Peter Quill’s toxic masculinity and womanizing behavior.
The underutilization of Mantis as a character, relegating her to a sidekick role with little agency.
The lack of meaningful exploration of the emotional trauma and consequences of the characters’ actions.
The reliance on a soundtrack of classic rock hits to provide emotional depth and nostalgia, without fully integrating them into the narrative.
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Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel movies, outdated themes, offensive jokes, problematic characters, cultural insensitivity, insensitive humor, controversial moments, outdated pop culture references, social commentary.
Paul Sewald signs free-agent contract with Guardians
\n\n”,”providerName”:”Twitter”,”providerUrl”:”https://twitter.com”,”thumbnail_url”:null,”type”:”oembed”,”width”:550,”contentType”:”rich”},{“__typename”:”Markdown”,”content”:”Bringing in a 34-year-old righty with eight years of experience could be key.\n\nSewald can help lead this group to another year of dominance. Not only is he a reliable arm, but he’s known to be a leader in the community as well. He and his wife, Molly, created Sewald’s Strikeouts 4 Kids in 2022, which has raised over $250,000 to provide children a safe environment that’s free from abuse and neglect. He served as Arizona’s Roberto Clemente Award nominee last year and has clearly demonstrated a natural ability to lead and set positive examples – an intangible quality to add to a young roster.”,”type”:”text”},{“__typename”:”Video”,”contentDate”:”2024-09-11T21:27:33.48Z”,”preferredPlaybackScenarioURL({\”preferredPlaybacks\”:\”mp4AvcPlayback\”})”:”https://mlb-cuts-diamond.mlb.com/FORGE/2024/2024-09/11/1b5f37f7-de0a27b3-1370a73b-csvm-diamondgcp-asset_1280x720_59_4000K.mp4″,”type”:”video”,”description”:”Paul Sewald talks about being nominated for the Roberto Clemente Award, plus the importance and joy of giving back to communities”,”displayAsVideoGif”:false,”duration”:”00:02:18″,”slug”:”paul-sewald-on-roberto-clemente-award-nomination”,”tags”:[{“__typename”:”TeamTag”,”slug”:”teamid-109″,”title”:”Arizona Diamondbacks”,”team”:{“__ref”:”Team:109″},”type”:”team”},{“__typename”:”PersonTag”,”slug”:”playerid-623149″,”title”:”Paul Sewald”,”person”:{“__ref”:”Person:623149″},”type”:”player”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”vod”,”title”:”vod”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”roberto-clemente-award”,”title”:”Roberto Clemente Award”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”interview”,”title”:”interview”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”mlbn-radio”,”title”:”MLBN Radio”,”type”:”taxonomy”}],”thumbnail”:{“__typename”:”Thumbnail”,”templateUrl”:”https://img.mlbstatic.com/mlb-images/image/upload/{formatInstructions}/mlb/iuy0lp2segaqweh4dnf3″},”title”:”Paul Sewald on Roberto Clemente Award nomination”,”relativeSiteUrl”:”/video/paul-sewald-on-roberto-clemente-award-nomination”}],”relativeSiteUrl”:”/news/paul-sewald-guardians-free-agent-contract”,”contentType”:”news”,”subHeadline”:null,”summary”:”CLEVELAND – The Guardians have prioritized adding to their rotation all winter long. Now, they’re adding some experience to their bullpen.\nThe Guardians and free agent reliever Paul Sewald agreed on a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2026, the club announced on Wednesday. In order to clear space”,”tagline({\”formatString\”:\”none\”})”:null,”tags”:[{“__typename”:”InternalTag”,”slug”:”storytype-article”,”title”:”Article”,”type”:”article”},{“__typename”:”TeamTag”,”slug”:”teamid-114″,”title”:”Cleveland Guardians”,”team”:{“__ref”:”Team:114″},”type”:”team”},{“__typename”:”PersonTag”,”slug”:”playerid-623149″,”title”:”Paul Sewald”,”person”:{“__ref”:”Person:623149″},”type”:”player”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”transactions”,”title”:”transactions”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”TaxonomyTag”,”slug”:”apple-news”,”title”:”Apple News”,”type”:”taxonomy”},{“__typename”:”ContributorTag”,”slug”:”mandy-bell”,”title”:”Mandy Bell”,”type”:”contributor”}],”type”:”story”,”thumbnail”:”https://img.mlbstatic.com/mlb-images/image/upload/{formatInstructions}/mlb/uaximv8zjpvml4n48xdz”,”title”:”Paul Sewald signs free-agent contract with 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18 minutes ago
CLEVELAND – The Guardians have prioritized adding to their rotation all winter long. Now, they’re adding some experience to their bullpen.
The Guardians and free agent reliever Paul Sewald agreed on a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2026, the club announced on Wednesday. In order to clear space for Sewald on the 40-man roster, the team designated reliever Pedro Avila for assignment.
The deal is expected to be worth $7 million guaranteed for 2025 ($1 million buyout), with a $10 million option for 2026, though the club did not confirm the value.
Cleveland had the best bullpen in the Majors last year and although the biggest contributors are set to be back in 2025, the team did part ways with names like Eli Morgan, Nick Sandlin and now Avila – all of whom provided some much-needed depth last season. Sewald will now fill that void.
From 2021 through ’23, Sewald was a steady bullpen presence, keeping his ERA under 3.15 each year while recording double-digit save seasons. His ’24 season wasn’t quite as consistent, with his ERA creeping to 4.31 and his strikeout numbers dropping, but he had to work around neck and oblique injuries that resulted in two stints on the injured list. From the start of 2021, Sewald owns the seventh-lowest batting average against among all MLB relievers at .187. Emmanuel Clase sits just behind him in eighth (.191).
The Guardians know that Sewald has a chance to become a weapon for them out of the bullpen. With Clase working the ninth inning, Cade Smith available for the most critical point in the game and Hunter Gaddis possibly reclaiming his eighth-inning role, Sewald could slide into multiple roles as needed on any given night.
But as important as it is to add another threatening arm to the roster, the Guardians also knew they needed experience. Yes, this group was the best bullpen in the Majors last year consisting mostly of young, inexperienced arms. In 2025, it’s going to be a similar story. Smith will be in his sophomore campaign. Andrew Walters and Erik Sabrowski will still be rookies. Nic Enright and Franco Aleman have really good chances to make their debuts this season. It’s going to be another tremendously young bullpen.
Bringing in a 34-year-old righty with eight years of experience could be key.
Sewald can help lead this group to another year of dominance. Not only is he a reliable arm, but he’s known to be a leader in the community as well. He and his wife, Molly, created Sewald’s Strikeouts 4 Kids in 2022, which has raised over $250,000 to provide children a safe environment that’s free from abuse and neglect. He served as Arizona’s Roberto Clemente Award nominee last year and has clearly demonstrated a natural ability to lead and set positive examples – an intangible quality to add to a young roster.
The Cleveland Guardians have bolstered their bullpen by signing free-agent pitcher Paul Sewald to a contract. Sewald, who previously played for the Seattle Mariners, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Guardians’ pitching staff. Fans are excited to see how Sewald will contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting signing! #Guardians #MLB #FreeAgentSigning
CLEVELAND, OH – The Cleveland Guardians announced today the signing of free agent RHP Paul Sewald to a 2025 Major League contract that also contains a Mutual Option for 2026.
Sewald, 34, has recorded four straight double-digit save seasons since joining the Seattle Mariners as a free agent in 2021, posting a combined record of 19-11 with 81 saves and a 3.18 ERA in 234 relief outings with the Mariners and Arizona Diamondbacks over the last four seasons (229.0IP, 155H, 81ER, 299SO, .187avg; 11.8SO/9IP). Originally selected by the Mets in the 10th round of the 2012 MLB Draft out of the Univ. of San Diego, he pitched in the Mets organization for nine seasons before latching on with Seattle in 2021.
Seattle traded the Las Vegas, NV native to the Diamondbacks during the 2023 trade deadline, and he went on to convert a club record six saves during Arizona’s run to the National League pennant, tossing 8.0 scoreless innings during the NLWC, NLDS and NLCS. His 2024 campaign was derailed by oblique and neck Injured List stints around a career-high consecutive scoreless inning streak (15.2, 17-G), May 9-June 30, and a career-best 11-straight save conversions over the same span, while recording a 1.13 WHIP and .232 average against across 42 relief outings (16SV).
Sewald and his wife, Molly, have been pillars in the Las Vegas, Seattle and Phoenix communities, creating Sewald’s Strikeouts 4 Kids in 2022, which has raised over $250,000 in donations that go to providing children a safe environment, free from abuse and neglect, by creating strong and successful families. Beyond financial contributions, Paul and Molly dedicate their time to visiting Child Crisis Arizona and running supply drives, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others. This past September, the Diamondbacks made Paul their club Roberto Clemente Award nominee, given annually to the player who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions, both on and off the field.
Sewald becomes the fourth Major League free agent signing for Cleveland this offseason. To allow room on the 40-man roster, the club designated RHP Pedro Avila for assignment. The 40-man roster is currently at 40 players.
The Guardians have added depth to their bullpen by signing free agent right-handed pitcher Paul Sewald. Sewald, a reliable arm with a 3.65 ERA in 2021, brings experience and versatility to the team. With Sewald on board, the Guardians look to strengthen their pitching staff for the upcoming season. Welcome to Cleveland, Paul Sewald! #GoGuardians #MLBSigning
The Guardians announced Wednesday that they’ve signed free agent reliever Paul Sewald to a one-year contract with a mutual option for the 2026 season. He’s represented by ISE Baseball. The righty is guaranteed $7MM on the deal, reports Jeff Passan of ESPN. Per Zack Meisel of The Athletic, that’ll be paid out in the form of a $1MM signing bonus, a $5MM salary, and a $1MM buyout on a $10MM mutual option. Sewald can also earn an extra $100K for reaching each of 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60 relief appearances in 2025, giving him the opportunity to earn a total of $7.5MM on the deal.
Righty Pedro Avila has been designated for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster, per the club announcement. Cleveland also signed right-hander Riley Pint to a minor league deal. The Excel client will be invited him to spring training.
More to come.
In a surprise move, the Cleveland Guardians have signed veteran relief pitcher Paul Sewald, according to MLB Trade Rumors. Sewald, who previously played for the Seattle Mariners, brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record to the Guardians’ bullpen.
The signing of Sewald is seen as a strategic move by the Guardians to bolster their pitching staff and add depth to their bullpen. Sewald is known for his consistency and ability to pitch in high-pressure situations, making him a valuable asset for the team as they aim to compete in the upcoming season.
Fans are excited to see how Sewald will contribute to the Guardians’ success and are hopeful that his addition will help solidify the team’s pitching staff. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting signing and the Guardians’ upcoming season.
CLEVELAND, Ohio — Toronto continues to be a dumping ground for the Guardians’ multiyear contracts.
They traded Gold Glove second baseman Andres Gimenez to the Blue Jays at the winter meetings to get out from under the almost $100 million they owed him. They continued the pattern on Friday by sending another Gold Glove defender, Myles Straw, to Toronto for a player to be named.
Cleveland also sent international bonus pool money and cash to the Blue to complete the deal. The G’s signed Straw to a five-year, $25 million deal in 2022 after they they acquired him at the trade deadline from Houston in 2021.
Straw spent almost the entired 2024 season at Class AAA Columbus after the Guardians outrighted him at the end of spring training. Earlier this week they announced that they were inviting him to spring training as a non-roster player.
The Houston Astros have traded outfielder Myles Straw and an undisclosed amount of cash to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for a player to be named later.
Straw, 26, was a key contributor for the Astros last season, batting .268 with three home runs, 27 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases. The speedy outfielder is known for his excellent defense and base running skills, making him a valuable asset for any team.
In exchange for Straw, the Blue Jays will send a player to be named later to the Astros. This trade is expected to bolster Toronto’s outfield depth and provide them with a versatile player who can contribute on both offense and defense.
Stay tuned for more updates on this trade as the player to be named later is revealed.
The Blue Jays announced that they have acquired outfielder Myles Straw, cash, and 2025 international bonus pool space from the Guardians. Cleveland receives a player to be named later or cash in return. Per Ben Nicholson-Smith and Shi Davidi of Sportsnet, the Jays are adding $2MM of pool space in the deal. Davidi had reported earlier that the Jays were looking to add pool space. Nicholson-Smith and Davidi further report that Cleveland is covering $3.75MM of the $15.5MM that is still owed to Straw. Per Zack Meisel of The Athletic, that will be $1MM in both 2025 and 2026, followed by $1.75MM after that.
With the international pool space, it’s fair to wonder about the Jays and their connection to Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki. He has to choose his next club in less than a week and is subject to the international bonus pool signing rules. It has been reported that the Jays are one of three finalists for his services, alongside the Dodgers and Padres. Nicholson-Smith and Davidi both caution that this deal does not mean Sasaki has made a decision, rather that the Jays are being prepared for the possibility of Sasaki choosing them. It’s possible that the Padres view themselves as now out of the running, as they have reportedly started finalizing deals with other international amateurs, something they had put on hold while waiting for more info.
Unlike most free agents, Sasaki isn’t going to sign with the club that can offer him the most money. Since he is coming over to North America prior to his 25th birthday, having recently turned 23, he is considered an amateur under MLB’s rules. As such, he is subject to the league’s bonus pool system. Under this system, each team gets a set amount of money to spend on international amateurs each year. As laid out by Ben Badler of Baseball America, the 2025 pools are each between $5-8MM. Broadly speaking, the smaller-market clubs get a bit more than the bigger clubs. A club can also lower its pool amount by signing a player that rejected a qualifying offer.
Teams can trade their bonus pool space with each other, in increments of $250K, but a team can’t increase its initial allotment by more than 60%. As such, Sasaki won’t be able to sign for more than a few million bucks. There will also be a posting fee owed to the Chiba Lotte Marines, his Nippon Professional Baseball club, though that will also be minimal. If money were his primary motivation, he likely would stayed in Japan until he turned 25. That’s what Yoshinobu Yamamoto did, which allowed him to secure a $325MM deal from the Dodgers.
Sasaki is therefore presumably choosing his next clubs based on other factors. He and his agent Joel Wolfe have been fairly cagey about what those factors might be, leaving baseball fans to speculate. It has been suggested that geography, a team’s pitching development reputation and/or long-term competitive outlook are possible factors, though those are mostly guesses.
Though money won’t be the main factor, it’s possible that Sasaki and his reps would like a large bonus, simply out of respect and as a reflection of his status. Sasaki is far more coveted than even the top international amateurs from any other year. The vast majority of signees in the pool system are 16-year-olds from Latin America who are years away from contributing and come with the standard uncertainties that are present with even the best prospects. The best of those guys can sometimes get bonuses of $5MM or more. The Mets gave Elian Peña $5MM this week, the top bonus for an international signing of this year so far.
Sasaki, on the other hand, is viewed as a plug-and-play ace. He already has four years of experience in Japan, having posted a 2.10 earned run average in that time. Though he doesn’t have the ability to ask for Yamamoto money, perhaps he and his reps want to at least get to something in the $6-10MM range so that he at least gets the symbolic victory of being the top bonus of his class.
The Jays started with a pool of $6,261,600. The Dodgers had their pool dropped by $1MM for signing Shohei Ohtani, since he rejected a qualifying offer and they were a competitive balance tax payor in 2023, winding up at $5,146,200. Since the Jays are allowed to increase their pool by 60%, they can theoretically get that number as high as $10,018,560. This deal gets them up to $8,261,600.
In a normal year, all 30 MLB clubs would announced most of their signings on the first day of the international signing period on January 15. That’s because most of these bonuses have been negotiated years in advance. However, Sasaki’s presence has thrown a wrench into the normal operation of things. The Jays, Dodgers and Padres have reportedly been holding off on finalizing their international signings as they await Sasaki’s decision. His posting window closes January 23, so resolution will have to come soon. As mentioned, the Padres are reportedly going to start finalizing some of their international agreements. That doesn’t mean they are definitely out on Sasaki but is obviously a different approach to what the Jays are doing now.
Time will tell whether this extra pool space can help the Jays at all in signing Sasaki, but it suggests they still view it as a possibility. If Sasaki ends up signing elsewhere, they could perhaps try to trade some of that pool space later or use it in a different way. The Sasaki situation has also thrown a few other things into disarray, as a few prospects that were committed to the Dodgers ultimately pivoted to sign elsewhere, not wanting to wait around. Darell Morel, Oscar Patiño and Teilon Serrano each walked away from the Dodgers to sign with the Pirates, White Sox and Twins, respectively. As this game of musical chairs plays out, it’s possible that there will be some interesting ways to use pool space, even without Sasaki.
More to come.
In a surprising move, the Toronto Blue Jays have acquired outfielder Myles Straw and international bonus pool space from the Cleveland Guardians. Straw, who was previously with the Guardians, is known for his speed and defensive prowess in the outfield.
This acquisition adds depth to the Blue Jays’ outfield and provides them with more flexibility in their lineup. Additionally, the international bonus pool space will allow the Blue Jays to potentially sign more top international prospects in the future.
Overall, this trade is a strategic move by the Blue Jays to strengthen their roster and position themselves for success in the upcoming season. Fans can look forward to seeing what impact Myles Straw will have on the team as they aim to compete for a playoff spot. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
The Toronto Blue Jays completed a deal with the Cleveland Guardians on Friday to acquire outfielder Myles Straw, cash considerations, and international signing bonus pool space for the 2025 period from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
Straw, 30, appeared in seven games for the Guardians a season ago, going 1-for-4 with two runs scored and two stolen bases.
In 562 career MLB games with the Houston Astros and Guardians, Straw has hit .244 with six home runs and 125 runs batted in. Primarily a defensive substitute and pinch runner, Straw hit .240 in 123 games with the AAA Columbus Clippers last season.
Of potentially greater interest in the deal is the acquisition of international signing bonus pool money, as the Blue Jays are reportedly one of two finalists to land coveted free agent pitcher Roki Sasaki.
A report from MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand on Wednesday indicated the Padres, who have since reportedly fallen out of the running to sign Sasaki, and Los Angeles Dodgers were each looking to add international bonus pool money via trade, which would increase what they’d be able to offer Sasaki as a signing bonus under MLB’s international free agent rules.
As of Wednesday, the Blue Jays had $6,261,600 in their international pool, while the Dodgers were a bit behind at $5,146,200.
Teams are allowed to trade for up to 60 per cent of their international bonus pool, meaning Toronto could accumulate as much as $10,018,560 compared to Los Angeles’ maximum total of $8,233,920.
Sasaki’s posting ends next Thursday on Jan. 23, meaning he has to sign an MLB contract before then. His team in Japan, the Chiba Lotte Marines, posted him on Dec. 9, opening a 45-day window for him to reach an MLB agreement.
As TSN’s Scott Mitchell reports, the Blue Jays have still not been informed that a decision has been made by Sasaki.
Sasaki is the No. 2 ranked player on TSN’s Top 75 MLB Free Agents list released in November. The 23-year-old went 10-5 last season for Chiba, recording a 2.35 ERA and 129 strikeouts in 111.0 innings.
The Toronto Blue Jays have made a move to bolster their outfield depth, acquiring outfielder Myles Straw and international signing bonus pool money from the Cleveland Guardians.
Straw, 26, brings speed and defensive versatility to the Blue Jays’ roster. He has primarily played center field in his career but can also handle left and right field. In 2021, Straw hit .271 with a .349 on-base percentage and stole 30 bases in 103 games split between the Houston Astros and Guardians.
In addition to adding Straw to their outfield mix, the Blue Jays also received an undisclosed amount of international signing bonus pool money from the Guardians. This will give Toronto additional flexibility to pursue international prospects and further strengthen their farm system.
Overall, this trade represents a low-risk, high-reward move for the Blue Jays as they look to improve their depth and competitiveness in the American League East. Stay tuned for more updates on the Blue Jays’ offseason moves as they continue to build towards the 2022 season.
