Why Peter Quill Did Not Utilize His Celestial Powers in 'Avengers: Infinity War'

In Avengers: Infinity War, Peter Quill Star-Lord does not utilize his celestial powers for a variety of reasons, which are crucial to understanding both his character development and the narrative structure of the film.

Character Development

At this point in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Peter Quill's celestial heritage and powers have not been fully explored or understood. While he is revealed to be half-Celestial in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, this aspect of his character is not a primary focus in Infinity War. The film aims to showcase his relationships and interactions with other characters, particularly Gamora, rather than diving deeply into his cosmic abilities.

Narrative Focus

The film emphasizes teamwork and the collective effort of all the Avengers and Guardians to combat Thanos. Quill's role is more about his relationships with other characters rather than showcasing his powers. The narrative focuses on the unity and cooperation of the team, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices each member endures for the greater good.

Emotional State

Quill is emotionally conflicted throughout the film, particularly regarding Gamora's fate. His emotional turmoil may have hindered his ability to effectively tap into his celestial powers. Emotional distress can impact one's mental and physical capabilities, which might have made it difficult for Peter to fully utilize his abilities without a clear and stable emotional state.

Plot Constraints

The film's pacing and plot structure require characters to act in ways that serve the overall story. Quill's powers might not have fit into the established narrative arc or the dynamics of the battles against Thanos. Despite Peter's potential for great power, the film prioritizes other elements of his character and the ensemble story. This decision ensures that the focus remains on the overarching plot rather than individual character moments.

Moreover, Peter Quill lost his powers when he killed his father Ego. Ego, who was the source of all Celestial powers, made it very clear in Vol. 2 that killing him would destroy the source of Peter's powers. When Ego died, Peter lost any special abilities he had. The powers Peter had in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 were given through his proximity to his father's core, allowing him to harness vast swathes of energy. These powers were not his own but rather those of an ancient colossal celestial being. With Ego's death, these powers left him.

Quill's body and genetics allow him to harness almost cosmic levels of power, beyond what most mortals can handle. The roster of people who can endure the worst of an Infinity Gem and survive includes Thanos, the Hulk, and Peter Quill! While he had the help of the Guardians in focusing and channeling that power, his use was significantly different from Thanos. Thanos could focus an infinity stone and deliver a super punch with Ronan being obliterated in a beam of pure energy. However, not the planet he was on. This showcases the immense power Peter possessed but also the limitations when not properly focused.

Furthermore, it's important to consider that Quill is young, all things considered. While he may be immature, from a cosmic perspective, he is practically an infant. Ego was hundreds of years old, and similar cosmic beings are practically eons old. Quill may not have powers because, at his stage of Celestial development, he is practically a baby. The powers that Ego commanded will only begin to appear when he reaches his first century of existence. His human DNA may limit his growth, but his power as a Celestial, inherited from his father, may still play a factor in his future abilities.

Ultimately, while Quill has the potential for great power, the film prioritizes other elements of his character and the ensemble story. Understanding these factors provides a deeper insight into why Peter Quill did not utilize his celestial powers in Avengers: Infinity War.