“Despicable Me 4” (2024)

Animated

Running time: 119 minutes

Written by: Mike White and Ken Daurio

Directed by: Chris Renaud

Featuring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Pierre Coffin, Joey King, Miranda Cosgrove, Stephen Colbert, Sofía Vergara, Steve Coogan, Madison Polan, Dana Gaier, Chloe Fineman and Will Ferrell

Gru: “You seriously want to kidnap a honey badger? Do you have any idea how dangerous they are? They literally eat bees and cobras for breakfast, honey badger don’t care!”

Illumination’s Despicable Me 4 marks a welcome return to the beloved franchise that has delighted audiences for over a decade. Picking up where Despicable Me 3 left off, the film continues to balance heartwarming family drama with outrageous comedy and lovable characters.

Gru, the former supervillain turned adoptive father, is still navigating his new role as a family man. His daughters, Margo,Edith, and Agnes, are growing up, each with their own unique personalities and challenges. Meanwhile, Gru’s mischievous Minions continue to provide endless chaos and laughter.

The film’s central plot revolves around a mysterious new villain, who poses a significant threat to Gru and his family. The antagonist’s motivations are intriguing, and the climactic confrontation is both exciting and satisfying. However, it’s the smaller moments that truly shine. The interactions between Gru and his daughters are heartwarming, and the Minions’ antics are as hilarious as ever.

One of the standout aspects of Despicable Me 4 is its visual appeal. The animation is vibrant and detailed, creating a colorful and imaginative world. The film’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of catchy original songs and classic tunes that complement the action on screen.

While the film may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, it delivers exactly what fans have come to expect from the franchise: a fun, family-friendly adventure filled with humor, heart, and lovable characters. Despicable Me 4 is a worthy addition to the series and is sure to please both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

While the surface-level plot of Despicable Me 4 may seem familiar to fans of the series, the film offers a deeper exploration of themes such as family, friendship, and self-discovery. Gru’s journey as a father is particularly poignant, as he grapples with the challenges of balancing his own desires with the needs of his growing family.

The film also delves into the complexities of friendship, particularly between Gru and his former nemesis, Lucy Wilde.Their evolving relationship adds a layer of depth and nuance to the story, demonstrating that even the most unlikely of pairings can form strong bonds.

Perhaps most importantly, Despicable Me 4 is a celebration of individuality. Each character, from Gru and Lucy to the Minions, is unique and brings their own special qualities to the story. This emphasis on diversity and acceptance is a refreshing and timely message.

While Despicable Me 4 is undoubtedly a fun and entertaining film, it’s not without its flaws. Some critics have argued that the film’s plot is overly predictable, and that the villain’s motivations are somewhat lacking in depth. Additionally, the Minions’ antics, while undoubtedly funny, can sometimes feel excessive and detract from the overall narrative.

Despite these criticisms, Despicable Me 4 remains a solid addition to the franchise. Its strong characters, vibrant animation, and heartwarming themes make it a worthwhile watch for audiences of all ages. While it may not be the most groundbreaking film of the year, it delivers on its promise of providing a fun and family-friendly experience.