Directed by James Gunn, who wrote the screenplay with Nicole Perlman, the film features an ensemble cast including Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, and Bradley Cooper as the titular Guardians, along with Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, John C. Reilly, Glenn Close, and Benicio del Toro.

[1][2] Guardians of the Galaxy premiered in Hollywood, Los Angeles, on July 21, 2014,[3][4] and was theatrically released in the United States on August 1,[5] as part of Phase Two of the MCU.

[10] Guardians of the Galaxy garnered awards and nominations in various categories with particular recognition for its acting (mainly that of Pratt), make-up, and visual effects.

The film garnered a nomination Outstanding Achievement for Character Animation in a Live Action Production at the 42nd Annie Awards.

At the 68th British Academy Film Awards, Guardians of the Galaxy was nominated for Best Makeup and Hair and Best Special Visual Effects.