Before this past weekend, the Marvel Cinematic Universe consisted of nine feature films and an accompanying television show. For the most part, the properties have been successes, so it is understandable that for the tenth feature, the studio felt confident in using a lesser-known property.

Director James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy takes us on our first foray away from the Earth (no, Fanboy, I’m not counting Asgard, nor alien invaders) and utilizing a wide and varied collection of cosmic Marvel characters from their publication history. And what a ride it is!

The first scenes give you the obligatory set-up and background of Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill/Star Lord. From there, he literally and figuratively takes control of the narrative. His easy, infectious charisma pulls together not only his allies, but also the antagonists and supporting characters, alike. Star Lord is the glue that holds this film together, and you are…