Comic Vine Review

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Guardians of the Galaxy

4

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is expanding out into space and, yes, the movie is pretty far out.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is venturing into new territory. Many of us, myself included, were a little skeptical with how a Marvel Sci-Fi movie would play out. Comic fans are aware of who the Guardians of the Galaxy are but your average movie-goer might not be sure what to make of this.

Of course, all that sort of thinking is unnecessary. If you think about it, the different franchises within the Cinematic Universe have had different feels to them. Iron Man has dealt with the business/Stark Industry side, Thor has dealt with mythological gods and other realms, and Captain America has dealt with war and espionage. Of course The Avengers was pretty much pure superhero action, with a touch of sci-fi/alien invasions. Exploring the cosmic corner of the Cinematic Universe, we are introduced to a new set of heroes.

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Unlike the other Marvel Studios films, Guardians of the Galaxy doesn't quite have the Avengers connection to tie it to the others. There is Thanos and the fact that his two "daughters" are in the movie. This might be enough for some. This is really a movie you can go into blindly, without having to worry how anyone is connected to one another. It's an origin story introducing us to characters many have never heard of.

The movie starts out with Peter Quill, Star-Lord. There's been slight variations to his origin in the comics (you can watch our video HERE on his history). We do see Peter on Earth as a child. I won't go into specifics, but there is an interesting twist on how he gets started on the path to becoming Star-Lord.

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The movie jumps forward and soon we are introduced to all the different characters. This is a slight moment where the movie falters. Star-Lord, Rocket Raccoon, Groot, Gamora, and Drax don't know each other (actually, Rocket and Groot do). What the movie has to do, at this point, is bring them all together and get them to bond as a team. Obviously, this does happen. It feels a little rushed. Soon, they are gathered as a team to take on Ronan and his evil forces.

For the most part, all the characters are portrayed just as you'd want them, if you're familiar with their comic book counterparts. Chris Pratt's Star-Lord might not the version we want, but he does have a charming charismatic approach with the expected Marvel Studios brand of humor thrown in. He may be a bit of a goof at times but when necessary, he steps up and handles the conflict admirably.

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Rocket Raccoon and Groot are the stand out characters. They too have the charm and appeal general audiences will gobble up. At the same time, they can easily hold their own in the middle of a fight. There are humorous moments with them but it fits in with the whole vibe of the movie. It might seem like an odd choice to bring these characters to the big screen but audiences will love them.

Drax took a little to warm up to. Soon you'll find yourself appreciating his presence. Sadly, Gamora's portrayal felt a little weak. In the comics, she's the deadliest women in the universe. While she is tough as hell in this movie, she's far from the force of nature we've seen in the comics. Hopefully this is something we'll get to see more of in future appearances.

Ronan's portrayal was pretty flat. As the movie's main antagonist, it felt like he was almost bored at times. Sure, Ronan is a stoic and calm character. He just didn't quite have the menacing feel you would expect in a movie on this scale. The use of the Sakaarans felt reminiscent to the Chitauri in The Avengers. They're largely here as cannon fodder.

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The visuals are top notch. When we're talking about battles in space or over alien worlds, poor visuals will stand out and pull viewers out of the story. The different worlds and alien species we see look great. You truly get a sense for the size and scale of the cosmic Cinematic Universe. You'll get excited with each new location you see.

There is a pretty liberal use of licensed music throughout the movie. It's part of who Star-Lord's character is but it really makes the movie stand out from other Marvel Studios films. While I enjoyed the music (I did buy the soundtrack), it almost felt like too much was used. On the other hand, it does help to give the movie a different feel from the others and also provides a slight anchor to Earth.

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When the first clips were released for Guardians of the Galaxy, many feared this would be too much of a comedy to fit in with the other Marvel Studios films. There is a healthy dose of humor but what else would you expect from a movie with a talking raccoon and tree-like creature? This is the sort of movie you go to when you're looking for a good time. The pacing might be off and some of the characters might not feel right, but it's a great start to a new franchise for Marvel. It's no wonder they've already announced a sequel and animated series. There is a lot of potential with the Guardians. We have another area of the Cinematic Universe to explore and that means we'll get more movies that don't feel redundant to similar to the Avengers-related movies. This is a movie I will definitely see more than once in theaters.

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ULTRAstarkiller

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I'm seeing it Saturday! I expect great things!!

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the_stegman

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yeah, four stars is the concensus I'm getting from many reviewers I listen to, Jeremy Jahns, Schmoes Know, (I don't pay any attention to the masses on IMDB or Rotten Tomatoes). Good film, but still with some flaws.

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deactivated-5fbfd5d291164

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Looking forward to Groot and Rocket.

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wannabrdj

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Saw it about 4 hours ago (earliest showing possible). Loved every second of it. Great acting, action, characters, and tons of humor. Marvel has done it again. Also, the post credits scene was hilarious and shocking.

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Maddpanda531

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Just saw this movie today. It was fantastic! I loved every second of it. Definitely recommend that everyone go see it.

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Hassun

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Edited By Hassun

The film was delayed to halfway August out here. Bummer.

Disappointing that they once again didn't manage to make a compelling villain.

Ronan is one of my favourite cosmic Marvel characters and Karen Gillan as Nebula looked great as well. Reminds me of Christopher Eccleston as Malekith. They get great actors for the roles but can't seem to do anything meaningful with them.

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deactivated-5fbfd5d291164

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So.. what was the after credits scene?

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Classique

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Saw it about 2 hours ago. Enjoyed it quite a bit. I really want to buy the soundtrack.

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Spideysense44

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The movie was outstanding. The character development in the film was its highest point. I really liked Star Lord and Gamora. Rocket and Groot were so great in this film as well. This was the best acting by Batista I have ever seen, he owned Drax. The only complaint I have is Nebula. This movie is one of Marvel's best movies. I think its definitely in the top 3.

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micah007123

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The movie is sitting at 90% on Rotten Tomatoes after 132 reviews, 119 of which are fresh and from top critic. This movie is outstanding, can't wait to see it tomorrow.

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Extremis

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I'd give this 4/5 for sure.

On the ComicVine scale this deserves a 5/5, though. I mean if MOS can get a score that high...

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Spideysense44

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Would love to know why u guys thought Gamora was weak, she seemed pretty good to me

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Extremis

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So.. what was the after credits scene?

lame. Don't bother staying. Seriously.

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Extremis

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Edited By Extremis

@hassun said:

The film was delayed to halfway August out here. Bummer.

Disappointing that they once again didn't manage to make a compelling villain.

Ronan is one of my favourite cosmic Marvel characters and Karen Gillan as Nebula looked great as well. Reminds me of Christopher Eccleston as Malekith. They get great actors for the roles but can't seem to do anything meaningful with them.

Yeah Ronan suffered from Malekith-itis as far as one dimensional villainy goes.

I give it a pass for this movie, though, because it's basically an origin story for a 5 member team. Not to mention it's introducing the Kree, Thanos (more properly), the Collector (more properly), other worlds, conflicts for future films, etc. This film tackled a lot so I could suffer through the lack of development for Ronan.

It had its flaws for sure but I'd still put it up there as one of Marvel's best. Maybe No. 4 after Avengers, IM and Cap 2. Fun factor, though, is right up there with Avengers.

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Spideysense44

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Extremis

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Edited By Extremis
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deactivated-5fbfd5d291164

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Extremis

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@dagmar_merrill said:

@extremis: But what was it?

The scene was Howard the Duck

It was so stupid though, wasn't it? Not "ha ha" stupid but more like they did solely just for the sake of it. It's like Rick Rollin' every Marvel fan. Why, Marvel? Why? ;(

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gmanfromheck

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@extremis: To me, Winter Soldier was a 5/5. This isn't on the same level. Really good. But not as good. Also, it's not like each reviewer has the same opinions. Also, I reviewed this movie on it's own, not compared to other movies. That wouldn't really make sense.

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Extremis

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gmanfromheck

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Edited By gmanfromheck

And let's all avoid spoilers without tags for those that haven't or won't be able to see it right away. Thanks.

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deactivated-5fbfd5d291164

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@extremis: Thanks for letting me know what it was man.

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Extremis

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@g_man said:

@extremis: To me, Winter Soldier was a 5/5. This isn't on the same level. Really good. But not as good. Also, it's not like each reviewer has the same opinions. Also, I reviewed this movie on it's own, not compared to other movies. That wouldn't really make sense.

Fair enough, but you just did compare it to WS by saying it's not on the same level. Jus' sayin'.

Regardless, I wasn't trying to fault you personally G Man. Just an old gripe about MOS that really doesn't have much place here... Except that I can't - nay, WON'T - let it go lol I appreciate the review and I know it takes work putting together so no disrespect :)

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Extremis

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TheFirstLantern

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Edited By TheFirstLantern

So basically the villain is Marvel's achilles heel?

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deactivated-5fbfd5d291164

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@g_man: What do you think of Ronan's portrayal?

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Edited By VanderSEXXX

@extremis said:

@hassun said:

The film was delayed to halfway August out here. Bummer.

Disappointing that they once again didn't manage to make a compelling villain.

Ronan is one of my favourite cosmic Marvel characters and Karen Gillan as Nebula looked great as well. Reminds me of Christopher Eccleston as Malekith. They get great actors for the roles but can't seem to do anything meaningful with them.

Yeah Ronan suffered from Malekith-itis as far as one dimensional villainy goes.

I give it a pass for this movie, though, because it's basically an origin story for a 5 member team. Not to mention it's introducing the Kree, Thanos (more properly), the Collector (more properly), other worlds, conflicts for future films, etc. This film tackled a lot so I could suffer through the lack of development for Ronan.

It had its flaws for sure but I'd still put it up there as one of Marvel's best. Maybe No. 4 after Avengers, IM and Cap 2. Fun factor, though, is right up there with Avengers.

True! I would've preferred Annihilus to be the main villain instead since Ronan has been an established hero since the events of Annihilation. Though I must say Yondu kicked ass in this movie. And also Howard the Duck's cameo was really surprising.

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It was as good as the Avengers.

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Spideysense44

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Edited By Spideysense44

@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@dagmar_merrill said:

@extremis: But what was it?

The scene was Howard the Duck

It was so stupid though, wasn't it? Not "ha ha" stupid but more like they did solely just for the sake of it. It's like Rick Rollin' every Marvel fan. Why, Marvel? Why? ;(

LOL. I didn't see it as bad as you might have. I mean I think us Marvel fans are starting to become a little bit spoiled. We had Cap already set up Age of Ultron, and Ant-Man hasn't started filming yet so I kinda didn't expect an important after credits.

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Knightfall225

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Edited By Knightfall225

I give the movie a 4/5. Great characters but the villains fell short. Loved The Guardians as a team and the theme of the movie fit perfectly. The visuals were great and the comedy is top notch.

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StMichalofWilson

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So the Hooked on a Feeling song was right after all

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WheatStalker

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Never met a green-skinned female character I didn't love. :)

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Extremis

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Edited By Extremis

@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@dagmar_merrill said:

@extremis: But what was it?

The scene was Howard the Duck

It was so stupid though, wasn't it? Not "ha ha" stupid but more like they did solely just for the sake of it. It's like Rick Rollin' every Marvel fan. Why, Marvel? Why? ;(

LOL. I didn't see it as bad as you might have. I mean I think us Marvel fans are starting to become a little bit spoiled. We had Cap already set up Age of Ultron, and Ant-Man hasn't started filming yet so I kinda didn't expect an important after credits.

Yeah that's true but Howard the effing Duck?! Come on man.

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Extremis

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I give the movie a 4/5. Great characters but the villains fell short. Loved The Guardians as a team and the theme of the movie fit perfectly. The visuals were great and the comedy is top notch.

Well said. This seems to be the consensus. I will say this: For all the development these villains lacked, Marvel's makeup is doing a KILLER job making these characters look menacing and creepy. So, if nothing else, they make for good, polished eye candy.

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Spideysense44

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@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@dagmar_merrill said:

@extremis: But what was it?

The scene was Howard the Duck

It was so stupid though, wasn't it? Not "ha ha" stupid but more like they did solely just for the sake of it. It's like Rick Rollin' every Marvel fan. Why, Marvel? Why? ;(

LOL. I didn't see it as bad as you might have. I mean I think us Marvel fans are starting to become a little bit spoiled. We had Cap already set up Age of Ultron, and Ant-Man hasn't started filming yet so I kinda didn't expect an important after credits.

Yeah that's true but Howard the effing Duck?! Come on man.

LOL yea if they wanted a scene back at the Collector's place, they could have shown Warlock's cocoon crack a little that woulda been great

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deactivated-097092725

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@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@dagmar_merrill said:

@extremis: But what was it?

The scene was Howard the Duck

It was so stupid though, wasn't it? Not "ha ha" stupid but more like they did solely just for the sake of it. It's like Rick Rollin' every Marvel fan. Why, Marvel? Why? ;(

LOL. I didn't see it as bad as you might have. I mean I think us Marvel fans are starting to become a little bit spoiled. We had Cap already set up Age of Ultron, and Ant-Man hasn't started filming yet so I kinda didn't expect an important after credits.

Yeah that's true but Howard the effing Duck?! Come on man.

I took it as getting trolled. I laughed. Everyone reacted the same. The after credit scene expectation was getting out of hand in these movies, so this came off very funny.

I really enjoyed this film. More than I thought I would and with all the trailer following I did leading up to this, I still managed to be surprised. Not as high as Winter Soldier or Days of Future Past, but that's not to say this isn't of the same calibre.

I am so excited for the second film.

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Edited By FearTheLiving
@extremis said:

@spideysense44 said:

@dagmar_merrill said:

@extremis: But what was it?

The scene was Howard the Duck

It was so stupid though, wasn't it? Not "ha ha" stupid but more like they did solely just for the sake of it. It's like Rick Rollin' every Marvel fan. Why, Marvel? Why? ;(

What would you have rather seen? Age of Ultron is next and last time the Avengers was next up they just did a trailer essentially. I'd rather see someone like Howard The Duck show up for a fun after credits scene rather then hijack the movie for Avengers when aside from Thanos (for 3?) really doesn't tie into it. It's fun and silly.

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GraniteSoldier

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Seeing this tomorrow. Can't wait. At all. I'm really glad to hear Rocket steals the show a bit, because I totally knew he would and he's by far my favorite Guardian.

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Spideysense44

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I feel like you could make an entire film just based on Gamora and Star Lord's backstorys

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TheBlueAngel93

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I went it with pretty good expectations and I'll admit that my expectations were pretty much all met. One of the biggest worries about this movie, from what I could tell, was how heavy was the humor. Many fans, as earlier as when the first trailer was released, were worried that the movie would have too much humor and it would end up with the same fate as say, Iron Man 3. But thankfully, while there was a good bit of humor, the movie managed to balance it out and there wasn't really anywhere that I felt that the humor took away from the more serious moments.

The only real complaint I can think of was Ronan portrayal. I honestly never really understood his motives...he kept mentioning something about "his father, and his father's father" but I couldn't figure out why exactly he wanted to do what it is he tried to do in the film. It felt like he was just there simply to give the Guardians a reason to band together and save the galaxy from.

Another complaint I had, though it's more of a minor one, was the post-credit scene. To put it blunt, it was quite disappointing...not as disappointing as the post-credit scene in IM3, but close. To me Marvel's post-credit scenes have been used to always tease the next big movie or to tease a future big storyline Marvel plans on exploring in future movies. This post-credit scene would have worked better as a mid-credit scene, giving the fans something to laugh at while waiting for the big epic post-credit scene that most fans who wait through the credits are actually looking forward to. This is the second time Marvel has wasted this chance to get fans excited about their future fans, which I found very disappointing to say the least.

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johnny_blaze

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I'll wait for dvd release. And still waiting on a Black Panther movie.

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Spideysense44

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Seeing this tomorrow. Can't wait. At all. I'm really glad to hear Rocket steals the show a bit, because I totally knew he would and he's by far my favorite Guardian.

Your gonna love Rocket from beginning to end. Best portrayal you could possibly do for the character.

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GraniteSoldier

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@granitesoldier said:

Seeing this tomorrow. Can't wait. At all. I'm really glad to hear Rocket steals the show a bit, because I totally knew he would and he's by far my favorite Guardian.

Your gonna love Rocket from beginning to end. Best portrayal you could possibly do for the character.

I've heard he is damn near exactly like he is in the comics, which is what I was hoping for.

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AllStarSuperman

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I can't wait to see this!

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Lone_Wolf_and_Cub

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Just watched it. It was awesome!

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Ostyo

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Wait..."that" thing is in the credit scene? 0.o

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tparks

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Sounds great. Expectations sounds met to me!

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ShadowSwordmaster

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scouts1998

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I haven't seen it but from what i have heard i would have expected a 5