Infinity War: James Gunn Chose Guardians of the Galaxy’s Intro Song
James Gunn confirms that the Guardians of the Galaxy's introduction song in Avengers: Infinity War was picked by him. The 2018 culminating Marvel Cinematic Universe film was the first time the heroes appeared in a project by a different set of directors with Joe and Anthony Russo. Before that, Gunn directed both of their standalone adventures in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1 and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.
Infinity War brought together all pockets of the MCU franchise as Thanos officially debuted as the overall story's big bad. While the Mad Titan was the focus of the movie, the heroes had their respective moments peppered throughout the blockbuster. The Guardians of the Galaxy were eventually split up into two teams as Rocket and Teen Groot went on Thor's side mission for Stormbreaker, while the rest eventually met the New York-based heroes on Titan. Initially, however, they were all together with the film effectively setting up their introduction with the song "The Rubberband Man" by The Spinners suddenly playing in the background.
When asked about this on Twitter, Gunn confirmed that he indeed chose that track for the Guardians of the Galaxy's opening scene in Avengers: Infinity War. Unfortunately, he didn't give any more context as to why the song was chosen, but it highlights how big ensemble movies like the Avengers are really collaborative projects for Marvel Studios given the MCU's interconnected storytelling. Check out the director's answer below:
Previously, it was revealed that Gunn did some writing for the Guardians of the Galaxy in Avengers: Infinity War just to make sure their traits and personalities were consistent with that of their previous MCU appearances. Additionally, he insisted that during Star-Lord and Gamora's heartbreaking separation in Knowhere, Peter Quill actually honor his promise about killing her. Given this involvement, it makes sense Gunn was able to choose the Guardians' entrance song, especially considering the big role music plays in their solo adventures.
The Guardians of the Galaxy are set for their third film officially dated to release on May 5, 2023. Before they enjoy potentially their final standalone outing as a team, some of the heroes are confirmed to appear in Thor: Love and Thunder as a way to establish a connection between the end of Avengers: Endgame and the upcoming third movie. At the conclusion of Endgame, Thor joined the ragtag heroes, hoping that Asgardian of the Galaxy would be a thing. Just like in Avengers: Infinity War, Gunn also consulted on how the Guardians will be used in the Taika Waititi film, which should make audiences even more excited to see their role in it.
Source: James Gunn