As a long-time fan of Gru and his lovable Minions, I was eagerly anticipating the release of Despicable Me 4. This film, directed by Kyle Balda, Brad Ableson, and Jonathan del Val, continues the delightful chaos and heartwarming stories that have made the franchise a global phenomenon.
Cast and Characters:
Gru (Steve Carell); Lucy (Kristen Wiig); Margo (Miranda Cosgrove); Edith (Dana Gaier); Agnes (Madison Polan); Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell); Valentina (Sofia Vergara)
In this installment, Gru, now an agent of the Anti-Villain League, faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal, voiced by Will Ferrell, and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, voiced by Sofia Vergara. Gru’s family expands with the addition of Gru Jr., who brings his own brand of chaos and hilarity.
The film kicks off with a visually stunning experience, especially for those who get to see it in IMAX. The first fifteen minutes are dedicated to setting up the story, which helps lay the groundwork for the ensuing mayhem. While the initial pacing is a bit slow, it quickly picks up, delivering the slapstick humor and zany antics we love.
One standout moment is the film’s climax, set in a prison. Gru and Maxime Le Mal resolve their long-standing issues with a memorable duet of the Tears for Fears song “Everybody Wants to Rule the World.” This scene, featuring cameos from villains of past Despicable Me and Minions movies, is both hilarious and nostalgic.
What makes Despicable Me 4 particularly impressive is that no AI technology was used in its production. The film relies entirely on the creativity and skill of its human creators. The animation is meticulously crafted by Illumination’s talented team, ensuring that every frame is vibrant and engaging. The voice actors bring their characters to life with exceptional performances, adding depth and humor to the story.
The film also showcases a variety of new settings and character designs, pushing the boundaries of animation technology. The creative team has gone to great lengths to ensure that the film feels fresh while maintaining the beloved elements of the franchise.
The soundtrack of Despicable Me 4 is another highlight. Composed by Heitor Pereira, it features a mix of original scores and popular tracks that perfectly complement the film’s energetic and whimsical tone. The music enhances the emotional beats of the story, making the experience even more immersive.
The humor in Despicable Me 4 stays true to the franchise’s roots, combining clever wordplay with physical comedy. The Minions, as always, steal the show with their hilarious antics and endearing personalities. Their interactions with Gru Jr. add a new dynamic to the film, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.
Despicable Me 4 manages to balance humor and heart, appealing to both kids and adults. While it might lean heavily on slapstick humor at times, it ultimately provides a satisfying and entertaining experience. The subplot about holding grudges and resolving old conflicts adds a surprising layer of depth to the story.
I give Despicable Me 4 a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a great reminder that family movies can still offer enjoyment for all ages, combining laughter, excitement, and a touch of warmth.
