‘It makes me sentimental when I think about how much time we’ve spent together over the last 10 years’: Chris Pratt

Chris Pratt’s career took the leap to superstardom through his role as Peter Quill in the saga of Guardians of the Universe. Now, on the eve of the premiere of the third and final installment of the Marvel saga, the acclaimed actor admits to being nostalgic for the time spent with screen partners such as Dave Bautista and Zoe Saldana, and to be grateful to James. Gunn., director of the trilogy.

How did it feel to meet the family of guardians?

It is very special to meet the family of guardians for this part 3. It’s not usual to have such a good relationship as we do, and we’ve been in the trenches all these years as a family. The difference this time around is we know it’s the last episode, so everyone handles it in their own way. For me, that means savoring the moment and enjoying it. It’s been a lot of fun.

We saw ‘Guardians of the Galaxy VOL. 3’: Their moving and final space adventure together where the battle gets personal (no ‘spoilers’)

What has it meant to you to be a part of this franchise for so long?

It’s hard to put into words what it meant to me. I wanted to be an actor all my life, but I didn’t know what that would entail. If I could have paid the bills, moved from job to job, I would still have felt like I was living my dream, and that would have been enough. It is special to me to know that I am part of something that is universally cherished, that will stand the test of time and survive on screens long after I am gone from this planet.

How has your character development been throughout the trilogy?

In the first film, Peter Quill is a young man learning to give something other than himself, to be less selfish, to be part of a family. In the second episode, he wants to learn more about himself and understand himself better. I think the third part is about Quill learning to get right on his own.

What does Zoe Saldaña bring to the character of Gamora and what is it like to work with her?

Zoe’s development as Gamora is one of the most interesting in the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe. His personal development throughout the three films is also extraordinary. She went from being married in the first movie to being a mother of three in the third: there’s been a change in her. It’s always been fantastic.

About Dave Bautista…

I can’t imagine anyone else playing Drax. Drax is Dave and has always been Dave from the moment he came in and we auditioned on camera. His voice, his heart, his kindness despite being gigantic, his humour, his devotion to his art: it’s fantastic. He is very funny and has a huge heart, he leads with his heart and is an advocate for people and ideas. It makes me sentimental when I think about how much time we’ve spent together over the past ten years.

What do you think of Bradley Cooper as the voice of Rocket?

Bradley Cooper is a generational talent, he is extraordinary. It brings a kind of magic to Rocket. He brings his spirit to the character, and it shows.

About Vin Diesel, voice of Groot…

Vin is unique, he is absolutely original. He has a beautiful voice, he gives Groot’s voice weight and presence. Moreover, he has made a huge mark on the world with millions of people following him and being his fans, but he also has a big heart and his kids adore him. He is always very present in his role as a father. You have my respect in that regard.

Is Rocket’s story central to this movie?

Look, they’re going to tell you this is Rocket’s story, but no: it’s the story of Peter Quill, the legendary outlaw, so don’t forget that. But no… It’s the story of Rocket, of his process of accepting himself as he is. He sees himself as an abomination, the result of a cruel animal experiment that placed him in a body he hates. In this film, we get to know his true origins.

Why are you excited for the audience to see this movie?

What excites me about all this is that it will take you there feeling from stage 2. It’s one of the few stories they haven’t been able to experience yet, so it’s very nostalgic. I think audiences will be very excited to be able to revisit this era.

I’ve been playing this character for nine years and it’s been the best nine years of my life. I’m so thankful to James Gunn and Kevin Feige and everyone at Marvel Studios and the people who love and support these movies.