Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Theatrical Trailer (2017)

Theatrical trailer for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, starring Christ Pratt, Zoe Saldana and Dave Bautista.

Set to the all-new sonic backdrop of Awesome Mixtape #2, Marvel’s Guardians sequel continues the team’s adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mystery of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics will come to our heroes’ aid as the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to expand.

A big, under the radar, new appearance that is likely to happen in this Guardians of the Galaxy installment is the introduction of Beta Ray Bill. The character is looking to hit the ground running, as Bill is then expected to make an appearance in Thor: Ragnarok, only to later get fully involved in Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War. DC could learn a thing or two from Marvel's ability to (slowly) introduce a new character.

Though the character is connecting a number of MCU properties, director James Gunn has made it clear that the story will not serve to set up Infinity War.

If you've been keeping up with the film's posters, you might notice that one was created to purposely parody the Ramones album cover for Rocket to Russia.

The music selection -- aka "mixed tape" -- used in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise is obviously important. Which is why I love that the trailer kicks off with Baby Groot connecting the amp, all to ensure the audience has some tunes to listen to. Nice play.

The trailer even showcases a clip where they acknowledge the first installment. Providing the challenge to Star-Lord and his team: Can they save the galaxy again? Hopefully and, as an added bonus, they can raise their rate if they do it twice. At least, according to Rocket.

What the latest preview is also sure to do is reveal that our team of Guardians are definitely expanding. And, just in case it wasn't clear, they drive the point home right at the end. As usual, great trailer out of the MCU.

Oh, and let's not forget the introduction of Kurt Russell! Who looks fantastic!