When it comes to blockbusters, there are few that can do it better than Marvel Comics.

The studio has raked in about $6 billion dollars with their hero-heavy movies like Iron Man, Captain America and The Avengers.

But when Guardians of the Galaxy hits Canadian theatres Friday, only Marvel's most die hard fans will recognize the ragtag group of characters leading the cosmic adventure.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Marvel's new movie Guardians of the Galaxy features lesser known characters from the Marvel roster. (Marvel Comics)

Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, and Zoe Saldana star as a motley crew of misfits forced to fight together against a common enemy, Ronan the Accuser (played by The Hobbit's Lee Pace.)

The satirical space epic is a big departure for Marvel, and it represents a big risk for the brand.

But, according to CBC film critic Eli Glasner, it's a gamble that pays off if you ignore the plot and settle in for some fun.

Watch Eli's full review in the video above.

Guardians of the Galaxy is in theatres now.