James Gunn explains real meaning behind Groot speaking in Guardians 3

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Getting to the Groot of the problem

Guardians of the Galaxy 3
(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Groot’s big moment in Guardians of the Galaxy 3 now makes much more sense – after this reveal from director James Gunn.

Spoilers for the Guardians of the Galaxy 3 ending follow.

As the Guardians get ready to say their goodbyes on Knowhere, Groot – who has only said "I am Groot" up until now in the trilogy – gets in on the group farewell and says "I love you guys."

What gives? Can Groot speak English now? And why couldn’t he before? The answer is a little deeper than you might expect.

A Gizmodo feature posits that he no longer says "I Am Groot" because the past-era Gamora can finally understand Groot after being brought into the Guardians’ inner circle. Having been along on the ride for so long we, the audience, can also understand what the tree-based Guardian is saying.

In response, James Gunn wrote on Twitter, "Spoiler... Yes, that’s exactly what it means."

Still confused? Up until now, we – and several non-Guardians characters – couldn’t comprehend Groot's language because we didn’t have too close of an attachment to him. By the end of the trilogy, after experiencing all that the cosmic team has been through, we can now understand him.

So, no, he’s not speaking English. Try not to think too hard about it: it’s not a literal explanation, but it’s a nice summary of the trilogy’s themes about outcasts finally finding their place in the universe with each other. Trust Vin Diesel to find new ways to make us care about family.

Bradley Russell
Bradley Russell
Senior Entertainment Writer

I'm the Senior Entertainment Writer here at GamesRadar+, focusing on news, features, and interviews with some of the biggest names in film and TV. On-site, you'll find me marveling at Marvel and providing analysis and room temperature takes on the newest films, Star Wars and, of course, anime. Outside of GR, I love getting lost in a good 100-hour JRPG, Warzone, and kicking back on the (virtual) field with Football Manager. My work has also been featured in OPM, FourFourTwo, and Game Revolution.