The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is a special featuring the Marvel superhero team on a holiday quest. Its content is in line with the other GOTG movies; violence includes characters being beaten, usage of both Earth and space guns, a police car getting overturned, and a kidnapping. Language includes "s--t," "crap," "damn," and "sucks." There's also lots of drinking; characters get drunk on shots and appear hung over. Despite (and because of) the edgy exterior, this is a great holiday special for families with teens to try out. It has fun music, lots of action, and more holiday spirit than viewers might expect.
What's the Story?
Now residing on the planet Knowhere, the Guardians of the Galaxy are trying to settle in. They've even taught the locals a bit about the Earth custom of Christmas. But when Kraglin (Sean Gunn) shares a story of a Christmas gone wrong for Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Mantis (Pom Klementieff) and Drax (Dave Bautista) get an idea. As they travel to Earth in an attempt to get Peter the greatest Christmas gift ever in order to restore his holiday spirit, chaos ensues. Will they be able to give Peter what he really wants? And is Mantis ready to share a big family secret?
Is It Any Good?
Fans of retro holiday specials and superheroes alike will find lots to enjoy in this goofy, chaotic holiday treat with a lot of unexpected heart. In The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, Drax and Mantis take center stage, so if you like their usual banter, there's lots more of that here. Kevin Bacon is also delightfully game, playing an easygoing version of himself. While it's not an official musical, like the other GOTG movies, music plays a big role, and offbeat holiday hits like The Pogues' "Fairytale of New York" and new original songs by The Old 97s are a fun listen. And despite the rough-around-the-edges vibe, it still might bring a tear to viewers' eyes when the Guardians turn Knowhere into a holiday paradise for Peter.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the spirit of Christmas. What does it mean in this special? How about in your world?
Is it OK to do the wrong thing if the intentions are good?
How do the Guardians act as a family? What makes a family?
TV Details
- Premiere date: November 25, 2022
- Cast: Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff
- Network: Disney+
- Genre: Comedy
- Topics: Superheroes, Holidays
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: January 18, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
-
Guardians of the Galaxy
Marvel's sci-fi adventure has it all: laughs, action, charm.
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Avengers: Endgame
Intense but satisfying finale is an epic gift to MCU fans.
-
Lego Star Wars Holiday Special
Delightful special is a gift for Star Wars fans, families.
For kids who love superheroes
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