An acoustic version of Radiohead’s iconic track Creep is featured in James Gunn’s superhero film Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. The movie’s soundtrack and accompanying playlist have become a talking point for fans, with streaming services releasing a dedicated lineup that collects the songs from the entire Guardians trilogy. Notably, this music package is available on music platforms in Canada and the United States, and it stands out as a key element of the film’s mood and pacing.
Gunn has described the new movie as a darker entry in the Guardians saga, with Radiohead’s somber acoustic centerpiece amplifying the shift in tone right from the opening credits. In an interview with a leading music magazine, the director explained that the film begins with a restrained, intimate acoustic rendition of Creep rather than the rousing, well known anthems that opened the earlier installments. The choice sets a stark contrast for audiences and signals a more introspective arc for the ensemble characters. The effect is a deliberate tonal departure that shapes viewers expectations for what follows across the film’s runtime.
The soundtrack also features a broad mix of iconic songs that have become synonymous with the franchise. Florence + the Machine contribute Dog Days Are Over, Bruce Springsteen offers Badlands, Heart performs Crazy on You, Beastie Boys bring No Sleep Till Brooklyn, and the trailer music includes In the Meantime for dramatic emphasis. These tracks join a carefully curated selection that underscores the film’s emotional beats, action set pieces, and character moments, providing a musical throughline that fans have come to expect from the series.
The film’s ensemble cast includes Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Sean Gunn, Chukwudi Iwuji, Will Poulter, Elizabeth Debicki, Maria Bakalova, and Sylvester Stallone. Their performances anchor a story that brings the Guardians to a pivotal point in their journey, weaving humor and heart with high stakes and sprawling space-set adventures. Viewers in North America can anticipate a release that aligns with regional distribution patterns, while audiences in other territories will see a staggered rollout that reflects local markets and licensing agreements.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is positioned as the concluding chapter in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy and the 32nd installment within the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe. It sits in Phase Five of the MCU’s ongoing narrative, marking a milestone for the franchise as it transitions through new leadership, creative directions, and evolving character dynamics. An international release plan is expected to follow standard industry practice, with regional premieres announced as cinemas plan their schedules. The film is set to debut in many territories during the spring, with some markets receiving earlier or later dates depending on distribution rights and local regulatory processes.
Previously, Pratt addressed public criticism during the final day of filming for Guardians of the Galaxy, sharing reflections with fans and press about the experience. His remarks highlighted the challenges and joys of completing a project that has connected with a broad and dedicated audience across generations, while also acknowledging the pressures that come with finalizing a long running arc in a beloved franchise.