The first noteworthy aspect is the absence of Gamora for the majority of the trailer. Although the character met her demise in Avengers: Infinity War, an alternate version of her time-traveled from 2014 to the MCU present in Avengers: Endgame. This version decided to stay and explore her true purpose, especially after the defeat of Thanos.
The trailer reveals that the Guardians have experienced a prolonged period of relative silence. However, driven by the desire to find Gamora (the 2014 version) and the commitment to protect the universe, they gather once again to embark on a journey to enforce justice. The trailer also indicates Gamora's definite inclusion, as she can be seen assisting Mantis, Drax, and Nebula in combat against their foes.
Anticipated reactions from the Guardians towards Thanos's adopted daughter's new version, as well as the influence of this character on the future of the MCU, are worth looking forward to. It's essential to note that Gamora's presence from an alternate timeline could lead to multiverse chaos and incursion phenomena, resulting in the collapse of one or more realities.
Another noteworthy point in the new trailer for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the introduction of Adam Warlock, a character teased in the post-credits scene of the second film. In the comics, Warlock is one of the most powerful entities in the Marvel universe and plays a pivotal role in the infinite struggle against Thanos. However, Marvel Studios has kept this character hidden for years, not featuring him in Avengers: Infinity War or Avengers: Endgame.
Adam Warlock has previously portrayed both a protagonist and an antagonist in Marvel comics. Therefore, it's challenging to predict how director James Gunn will explore this character at this point. The segments featuring Warlock in this trailer are individually shot, except for the scene where he forcefully attacks Nebula with his immense punch.
According to various sources, the High Evolutionary will be the primary antagonist in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and the character itself has made an appearance in this trailer. Hence, initially, Adam Warlock might become an adversary to the Guardians before the two sides reconcile and join forces against a greater villainous threat.
Speaking of the High Evolutionary, this is the alias of the villain Herbert Wyndham, a scientist specializing in studying the genes of creatures across the universe to create new species, the New Men, a crossbreed between humans and various animal species. The Guardians clash with this race from the very beginning of the trailer. While they bear a striking resemblance to humans on Earth, their limbs are a hybrid of different animal species.
It's challenging to ascertain the motives of High Evolutionary in this film. However, the appearance of Peter Quill and his comrades will undoubtedly thwart his plans, forcing him to find ways to eliminate them.
The final notable detail is about Rocket, a core member of the Guardians and likely the focal point of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. As mentioned earlier, this film will delve deeper into Rocket's origin and past. In the comics, he comes from a planet in the Keystone Quadrant star system, considered a desolate land for genetically altered and modified animal species. This aligns with the ideals and schemes pursued by the antagonist, High Evolutionary.
Moreover, it appears Rocket will undergo a significant event that his friends and even the audience may not be ready to embrace. If one scrutinizes the trailer closely, Rocket is seen in many particularly poignant moments, from his words to gestures and actions. There have been numerous speculations about the potential sacrifice of one (or more) members of the Guardians in their final solo film. Rocket seems to be the name causing the most unease and concern among fans.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will welcome back familiar faces, including Chris Pratt (as Peter Quill), Zoe Saldana (Gamora), Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista), Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper), and Groot (Vin Diesel). Meanwhile, the renowned actor Will Poulter will portray Adam Warlock, and Chukwudi Iwuji takes on the role of the villain High Evolutionary.
As per the plan, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is set to premiere on May 5, 2023.
Source: Marvel Studios, SlashFilm