Directors: Kyle Balda, Pierre Coffin, Eric Guillon.
Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Trey Parker, Steve Coogan, Jenny Slate, Julie Andrews.
I suppose a lot depends on whether you're a fan of the previous films to whether you're going to like this one or not. However, with the additional of the now fashionable retro referrals it does add another comical dimension. But it's the same yarn we've seen before and honestly, I'm growing tired of Gru and his antics.
This time Gru reunites with his long lost brother, Dru, both obviously voiced by Carell, whilst the minions go on a revolt, wanting to return to a life of crime. It feels like the girls take a back seat in this one, with all attention on Gru and bro, filled with snippets of minion antics to keep viewers entertained. The minions are what save the movie from being a complete bore. Their rendition of Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance is nothing short of comic brilliance. But it isn't enough.
I was actually really looking forward to meeting Balthazar Bratt, who is an excellent, vibrant villain and Trey Parker of South Park fame does a brilliant job at voicing him. But there wasn't enough of him, I wanted to see more, but the films shows little more than the trailers or it feels that way. I wasn't that interested in Dru, and found him annoying more than being funny. Maybe even Carell has grown tired of the part, as he's mentioned this is his final outing as Gru, but wouldn't say no to a cameo in the Minions sequel.
I have to keep reminding myself that it's a family film and the kids probably love it, but it really feels like a lazy addition and just another vehicle to boost merchandise and toy sales. Sadly, most of the best and funny bits are shown in the trailer. It actually feels more like a spinoff than being a main feature, like those straight to DVD releases many of these family films do.
What did I like about the movie? The soundtrack was good, though the score is easily forgettable. It's beautifully done, but there's everything we've already seen. Sadly, I think it's the end of Gru.
Running Time: 5
The Cast: 6
Performance: 6
Direction: 6
Story: 5
Script: 5
Creativity: 6
Soundtrack: 7
Job Description: 2
The Extra Bonus Point: 0
48% 5/10
