Marvel made it possible for Bill Mantlo, who created Rocket Raccoon with artist Keith Giffen, to see the film starring his creation on opening weekend, according to a post on his brother Michael Mantlo’s Facebook page.  "Bill thoroughly enjoyed it, giving it his HIGHEST COMPLIMENT (the BIG "THUMB'S UP!"), and when the credits rolled, his face was locked into the HUGEST SMILE I HAVE EVER SEEN HIM WEAR (along with one or two tears of joy)," he said.  "This was the GREATEST DAY OF THE LAST 22 YEARS for me, our family, and most importantly, BILL MANTLO!"

Mantlo has required constant care since he had a traumatic brain injury from a hit-and-run accident in 1992, and attention to his condition has grown since his character began to receive attention in the run-up to the release of Guardians of the Galaxy (see "Comic Creator Troubles, Relief"). 

The film set a record for an August open (see "'Guardians' Sets New August Record").