9) It’s Still Important To The Existing Universe
We knew in the grand scheme of things that an infinity stone would honor us with its presence in this film, but we weren’t quite expecting an explanation of what these mysterious stones actually are (yes, I know it’s inked into comic history). The notion that these small sought after objects contain universes amongst them followed by a purple servant explosion spectacle showed us just how powerful they are when “normal” people deal with them.
Starting with Captain America: The First Avenger, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been slowly assembling these stones for – spoiler alert! – an eventual battle with the admirer of death himself, Thanos.
But most interesting is that we know of the whereabouts of two infinity stones in just one movie, knowledge that hasn’t been given to us yet. The Aether is presumably still in Knowhere with The Collector, while the Orb is now in the protection of the Nova Corps. With the assumption that all the stones will make an appearance again, Knowhere and the Nova Corps are now targets for Thanos, thereby increasing the significance of the Guardians’ presence in the overall universe.
Whether or not their second venture into space will tie in with the Thanos arc is yet to be disclosed – or even decided for that matter – but if Marvel is wise, they’d find a way, as I doubt the Guardians will join The Avengers in the final fight against Thanos. But then again, Drax and Gamora do have a bone to pick.
No, Drax, you’re not actually picking a bone…