The 20 Best Guardians of the Galaxy Quotes From the Entire MCU

While it doesn’t seem right to count the Guardians of the Galaxy out quite yet, the third film was certainly the finale of director James Gunn’s time with the characters. Not to mention a few of the stars, such as Dave Bautista. Perhaps a new team could replace them for the fans’ required quota of galactic team-up adventures. Or, just as likely, there will be a continuation not directed by Gunn but featuring the team he set up during the third film’s final scene.

All three of Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy movies feel extra special. It’s certainly one of the MCU’s most well-constructed trilogies. But just as there are compelling action sequences that make them so popular, there’s also snappy dialogue and sublime chemistry among the cast members.

These are the 20 best lines from every movie featuring the Guardians. This means that not only was material from Gunn’s trilogy subject to inclusion, but Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, Thor: Love and Thunder, and, even though it’s not quite feature-length, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special.

20 “We are Groot.” — Groot, Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

It’s amazing to think that, before 2014, James Gunn had really only done micro-budgeted films. What a change Guardians of the Galaxy was. A risky, risky change. But there was no better artist to helm the ship, just as there was no better artist to write it.

What Makes It Endearingly Groot?

‘I am Groot‘ isn’t an original Gunn line, but ‘We are Groot’ is. And that one minor alteration to the line speaks to where the heart of Gunn’s film is. Had he not focused on the characters as much as he did, there’s a better-than-good chance Guardians of the Galaxy would have been an MCU one-off.

19 “Nothing goes over my head… my reflexes are too fast, I would catch it.” — Drax, Guardian of the Galaxy

This is the line that really introduced the audience to Drax, and became an instant, and often-quoted, classic. The character had already shown off his brute strength and revealed his issue with Thanos, but with this quote he reveals he’s also extremely literal, and fully unable to understand metaphors.

What Makes It Hilariously Drax?

Drax’s issues with metaphors would be explored throughout his time in the MCU. And, fortunately, it never got old. But it arguably peaked here, especially given the irony that he’s talking specifically about how nothing goes over his head, thereby missing what’s going right over his head.

18 “Well now I’m standing. Happy? We’re all standing now. Bunch of jackasses, standing in a circle.” — Rocket, Guardians of the Galaxy

The first Guardians of the Galaxy captured the audiences’ hearts over its first weekend in a big way. Come Monday, people of all demographics were talking about Groot, Quill, Gamora, Drax, and Rocket Raccoon. After all, each character gets several moments to truly shine in Gunn’s initial chapter.

What Makes It Perfectly Snarky Rocket?

In the case of Rocket, it was important for viewers to see a bit of a devil-may-care attitude mixed with an often-hidden love for those close to him, particularly Groot. The first film succeeds on both counts, and this line from Rocket highlights that, which has Rocket mock their symbolic gesture to stand together, united.

17 “I’m Mary Poppins, y’all!” — Yondu, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

One of the more iconic lines of the entire MCU Infinity Saga, this pop culture reference in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 hits home. It’s not just a reference to another Disney property, it’s a testament to the change in a character. Specifically, Peter Quill’s surrogate father/professional thief Yondu Udonta.

What Makes It Yondu’s Best Line?

When Yondu shouts it out, slowly descending with an umbrella in one hand and Quill in the other, some understand the reference and others don’t. But, they all smile and understand that, whatever it means, this is Yondu’s moment.

He may not have always been completely on the Guardians’ side at all times… but he had their backs from a distance more often than not. It’s a knowingly silly line, but Yondu’s sincere and deserved pride in having done well by Quill in the end makes it the movie’s most endearing.

16 “He may have been your father, boy, but he wasn’t your daddy.” — Yondu, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Ego the Living Planet may be an MCU villain who should return, but he sure as heck isn’t a good father. Is Yondu? Well, to a degree. He may not have been a perpetually positive influence, but there’s no doubt Yondu cared for Peter Quill.

What Makes It Touchingly Yondu?

Yondu is a softy. Is his exterior as cold and hardened as it is blue? It sure is. Will he go out of his way to protect Quill and his guardian pals? He sure will. That’s a father, and while Yondu didn’t have to vocalize his difference from Ego to Peter for the latter to understand, it was something worth saying.

15 “There are two types of beings in the universe: those who dance, and those who do not.” — Drax, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

What’s a sequel without a good callback? For instance, this Drax line from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. What is he referencing? The climax of the first film, of course.

RELATED: Marvel Had To Do Last Minute Trade With Fox to Feature Ego in Guardians of the Galaxy 2

What Makes It a Great Callback?

The dance-off scene in the first film was extra special because it helped diversify what’s otherwise an MCU standard finale: AKA a space battle and/or a big object falling to Earth. Plus, it’s funny, and makes a solid point simultaneously.

14 “I’m sorry. I took it too far. I meant trash panda.” — Peter Quill, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Rocket’s behavior throughout the first half of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 really earns him this insult from Peter Quill. Not to mention, ‘trash panda’ is oddly brilliant. And, it’s a punchline whose punch is pepped up by the recipient’s utter lack of awareness that it’s a much worse insult than the one that got him all riled up to begin with (calling him a racoon).

What Makes It Humorously Peter?

It’s not the nicest joke in the world, but Rocket has said worse. So, when Peter says this line to Rocket, it feels fairly deserved. And, again, ‘trash panda’ is great, and feels perfectly in-character for Quill.

13 “Awesome! We’re really gonna be able to jack up our prices if we’re two-time galaxy savers.” — Rocket, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Rocket may seem like a greedy little jerk, but he’s so much more. This holds true even if he doesn’t see it for himself… or in himself. But, of course, there is some greed in there, like towards the beginning of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.

What Makes It Greedily Rocket?

Rocket’s line shows no pride in having been a one-time galaxy saver. It’s all about how much they can elevate their price for altruism. Which, of course, defies the point of altruism.

12 “I have famously huge turds.” — Drax, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

What? No one said this list just had to have poignant quotes from the Guardians. Sometimes, to lessen the tension, the audience needs a solid poop joke.

What Makes It Hilariously Drax?

The fact that Drax is building off others’ turd-focused discussion is what makes this extra great. Rocket threatens to put one in Quill’s bed, but he’s not referring to his own turds, he’s referring to Drax’s. Even if Drax had said nothing, his belly laugh would have yielded the same result in the audience.

11 “When you’re ugly, and someone loves you, you know they love you for who you are… beautiful people never know who to trust.” — Drax, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

This is the sweetest line from the trilogy. And, unsurprisingly, it comes from Drax. And, also unsurprisingly, it comes right after Drax says something crass.

What Makes It Beautifully Drax?

Basically, Drax calls Mantis ugly, which naturally hurts her feelings. But, then he qualifies his words. And, in doing so, Drax reveals a depth that would be confirmed come the conclusion of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

10 “You know you can’t eat dumbbells, right” — Rocket, Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

Avengers: Infinity War is packed with moments that are both devastating and humorous. On one end, there’s a mass slaughter that wasn’t even stopped by a Scarlet Witch killing her Infinity Stone-equipped android love. On the other end, there’s just about every line from every Guardian of the Galaxy save for Gamora.

What Makes It Meanly Rocket?

It’s not a very nice joke, but it’s not as unpleasant as those at Thor’s expense in Avengers: Endgame. And, in all fairness to Rocket, it’s a good joke. Dumbbells could easily pass as the name of a candy.

9 “What master do I serve? What am I supposed to say, Jesus?” — Peter Quill, Avengers: Infinity War

Chris Pratt is well known for being a man of faith in Hollywood. But there’s a (top-tier) line in Avengers: Infinity War that makes one believe that Peter Quill is the opposite. It happens when he first encounters Doctor Strange, Spider-Man, and Iron Man on the alien vessel.

In a moment of confusion, the heroes are fighting each other, and Strange asks Quill the oddly phrased question, “What master do you serve?” His humorous and snarky response tells them everything they need to know: he’s from Earth, and he’s not with Thanos.

What Makes It Ironically Peter?

Chris Pratt is one of the more outspoken Christians in Hollywood. And, by saying this, Quill is really just a short step from blasphemy. Yet, given Pratt’s faith, the line reads as more genuine (and humorous).

8 “Really? Tears?” — Gamora, Avengers: Infinity War

Gamora’s never been one to rush up and hug someone who’s having a good cry, but she’s especially dismissive of her cruel abductor of a so-called father’s tears. But she’s also asking this question sincerely. She’s scoffing, without a doubt, but there’s a hint of legitimate surprise on her face and in her voice. Then, the Red Skull clarifies just why those tears are running down his purple cheeks.

What Makes It Coldly Gamora?

In a way, this reaction isn’t cold, it’s logical. Thanos has abused her throughout the majority of her life. Why would she see a tear roll down his face and immediately assume it to be genuine?

7 “It was either him or the tree.” — Nebula, Avengers: Endgame (2019)

For obvious reasons, many of the Guardians sit the vast majority of Avengers: Endgame out. But, Rocket and Nebula get some time to shine. And, while much of the dialogue is somber, Nebula still gets in a really solid quip once Peter Quill is un-dusted.

What Makes It Coldly Nebula?

2014 Gamora has some catching up to do. And, now that everyone’s been revived, she gets to meet the man a now-deceased version of herself spent five years getting to know and love.

Suffice it to say, 2014 Gamora isn’t enamored at first sight. But, her sister puts bluntly that, for one, there weren’t many options. More specifically, the only other option wasn’t even a person. With Quill standing right there.

6 “We’re looking for the legendary Kevin Bacon.” — Mantis, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special was a treat. Like Werewolf by Night, it’s easily digestible and mostly free of the MCU feature films’ many done-to-death plot points. Plus, it gives Mantis (played wonderfully by Pom Klementieff) some time to develop as a character. And, it took a lesson from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 to heart. Namely, that Mantis and Drax are a terrific combo.

What Makes It Innocently Mantis?

Mantis’ wide-eyed optimism and even wider smile are a perfect match for a Christmas (and/or holiday) special. And, while kidnapping is never a good idea, at least she’s kidnapping the legendary Kevin Bacon for a good reason: friendship. The ending of the special, however, reveals that Peter is a bit more than a friend to Mantis.

5 “Mantis… that is the greatest Christmas gift I could ever get.” — Peter Quill, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special

The end of The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special reveals that Mantis is a spawn of Ego the Living Planet, just like Peter Quill. It’s an unconventional way to be birthed in both scenarios, but they’re siblings nonetheless. She knows this before Quill, and it’s heartbreaking when she finally tells him, as is Quill’s reaction.

What Makes It Sweetly Quill?

Peter is legitimately surprised Mantis is fearful of his impending reaction. So, he uses a soft tone, gives a compassionate look, and reassures her. It’s a beautiful moment, and just one in The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special that helps the viewer understand why this 2.5 movie of sorts was well worth making.

4 “I never noticed how black your eyes were.” — Peter Quill, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 stood as proof that the MCU was still capable of producing both worthwhile films and box office successes. It’s a more-than-fitting finale to James Gunn’s trilogy, and there are a few scenes that rank with Tony Stark’s last ‘I am Iron Man’ as the most moving of the MCU. This wasn’t one of those.

RELATED: James Gunn Admitted the Difficulties Writing Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

What Makes It Innocently Peter?

The whole movie, Peter is heartbroken over Gamora. First she was murdered by Thanos, then an earlier version of her pops up in the present and has no clue who he is.

There aren’t many other options around him, so perhaps it was inevitable for his eyes to wander to Gamora’s sister: Nebula. Or, rather, Nebula’s pitch black eyes. It’s doe-eyed affection that she dissipates quickly.

3 “I’m not a bad dog! Take it back!” — Cosmo the Spacedog, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Cosmo the Spacedog was bound to be Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3‘s fan-favorite new character (save for a very brief introduction in the Holiday Special) even before Maria Bakalova was announced as her vocal performer. Of course, it was a match made in heaven. Just like Will Poulter and Adam Warlock, though they both could do with some expansion down the line.

What Makes It Perfectly Cosmo?

As a spacepup, Cosmo needs to have a cute line or three. Fortunately, she does, and most focus around a recurring gag with Kraglin. It’s a nice, bizarre way for two characters to bond, but considering it’s the lovable Sean Gunn and a dog, it would be almost impossible not to make their pairing a winner.

2 “Stop looking at me like a lost puppy looking for somewhere soft to lie down!” — Nebula, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

This line happens just after Peter has started looking over at Nebula with a loving look on his face. This is her way of replying to any potential budding romance. Specifically: squash it quickly.

What Makes It Callously Nebula?

As the trilogy progresses, Nebula develops. But, even by the third film (and the events of Avengers: Endgame), it’s not as if she’s all lilacs and daffodils. She’s more of a lone wolf than anyone who’s going to settle down with Peter in a countryside cottage.

1 “He makes us laugh and he loves us. That’s his purpose.” — Mantis, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Mantis knows how to set folks straight. She also knows what matters. For instance, she sees Drax as what he really is; not a brute, but a caregiver.

What Makes It Typically Supportive Mantis?

This moment in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is one of the film’s best. It feels wholly organic to Mantis, Drax (in some foreshadowing for his MCU send-off), and Gamora. The words were especially meaningful for Gamora, who quite noticeably had her eyes, and heart, opened by them.