Did you know Spirit in the Sky, the backing music to the main trailer for Guardians of the Galaxy, was released in 1969? That’s the same year the Guardians were introduced to the world by Marvel Comics.
Norman Greenbaums’s psychedelic 60’s anthem isn’t the only element in the making of Guardians that will help it become the biggest blockbuster of the year. But make no mistake, that’s exactly what GotG is poised to do.
Actually, many industry trackers are predicting a mid $60 million opening weekend. My prediction: expect it to do much, much better than that, and expect total earnings for its entire run to spin some industry heads. Here’s another prediction: Dave Bautista might be the breakout star of the film.
Why will GotG do so well? Among other things:
- Under-estimation/over-reliance of social mentions, which has trouble tracking outside the youth demo.
- Nostalgic reverence for a soundtrack that links to an era with some of the greatest films an older audience remembers fondly.
- Absolutely fantastic look and effects. As the 17 minute Imax preview 3 weeks ago proved, the look and special effects of this film are astonishing. Nothing this year compares.
- That great soundtrack all by itself. Seriously. Aside from the links to Star Wars, Jaws, Close Encounters, Alien, and so many others, the music is just energizing.
- That doughy Parks n Rec guy all beefed up.
- An all star cast including John C. Reilly, Benicio Del Toro, Glenn Close and many more.
- Self aware and genre deprecating humor. Just look at the poster. That’s Han Solo folks!
- A dreadful, and I mean absolutely dreadful summer movie season. The public is desperate for something exciting, well made, and not too serious.
- Probably the best marketing campaign of a film in 10 years.
- It’s a really, really good film. And, fun for all ages.
- Subliminal messaging.
- And finally, the Sipowicz maneuver.
Check in tomorrow to learn what those are, and why they all matter, as well as about the making of the film, see all the trailers, interviews and clips from the movie, and find a complete encyclopedia of all the marketing art, along with a ton of insider facts and trivia you might not otherwise know.
All of that will be revealed in our ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Starboard-side Companion,’ tomorrow. It’s absolutely everything there is to know about this film. Until then, let this behind-the-scenes featurette that introduces all the main characters tide you over. And take note of professional wrestler Dave Bautista’s blue Drax. That guy is hilarious.
PS: There’s several sneak previews tonight. The 7pm Imax will include a limited edition poster giveaway. It’s pretty cool.