Synopsis:
Gru, Lucy, and their daughters welcome a new addition to the family – baby Gru Jr. As Gru struggles to bond with his mischievous son, he faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal, a former schoolmate seeking revenge. When Maxime and his girlfriend Valentina threaten Gru’s family, they’re forced to go on the run, leading to a globe-trotting adventure filled with humor and heart.
Cast:
- Steve Carell as Gru
- Kristen Wiig as Lucy
- Will Ferrell as Maxime Le Mal
- Sofia Vergara as Valentina
- Miranda Cosgrove as Margo
- Dana Gaier as Edith
- Nev Scharrel as Agnes
- Pierre Coffin as the Minions
Crew:
- Director: Chris Renaud
- Co-Director: Patrick Delage
- Screenwriters: Mike White, Ken Daurio
Release Date: July 3, 2024
Running Time: 95 minutes
Motion Picture Rating (MPA): PG for action and rude humor
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Story Summary:
In “Despicable Me 4,” Gru faces his greatest challenge yet – fatherhood to a newborn who seems determined to make his life difficult. As he navigates the trials of raising a baby, Gru encounters Maxime Le Mal, a former classmate from villain school with a grudge. Maxime, along with his girlfriend Valentina, hatches a plan for revenge, forcing Gru and his family to flee their home. With the help of his wife Lucy, their daughters, and the ever-loyal Minions, Gru must protect his family while thwarting Maxime’s diabolical schemes.
Review:
“Despicable Me 4” proves that there’s still life in this animated franchise, delivering a delightful mix of humor, heart, and over-the-top action that will entertain both children and adults alike. The film successfully balances the slapstick comedy that has become a hallmark of the series with genuine emotional moments, particularly in Gru’s struggle to connect with his new son.
Steve Carell once again shines as Gru, bringing depth and humor to the reformed villain turned family man. His interactions with Will Ferrell’s Maxime Le Mal provide some of the film’s funniest moments, with the two actors playing off each other brilliantly. Sofia Vergara’s Valentina adds a new dynamic to the villain duo, and her chemistry with Ferrell creates a formidable and entertaining adversary for Gru.
The animation continues to impress, with vibrant colors and imaginative set pieces that bring the world of “Despicable Me” to life. The Minions, while not the focus of the story, still manage to steal every scene, their gibberish language and slapstick antics providing reliable laughs throughout.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its ability to evolve the characters while maintaining the core elements that made the franchise popular. Gru’s journey as a father to a newborn adds a fresh dimension to his character, allowing for both comedic situations and touching moments of growth. The established family dynamic between Gru, Lucy, and their daughters feels authentic and provides a solid emotional foundation for the story.
The plot, while not breaking new ground, moves at a brisk pace and keeps the audience engaged with a mix of action sequences, comedy set-pieces, and character-driven moments. The globetrotting aspect of the story allows for a variety of colorful locations and cultural gags that add to the film’s visual appeal and humor.
However, the film does occasionally rely too heavily on familiar tropes from previous installments, and some of the jokes may feel repetitive for long-time fans of the series. Additionally, the villain’s motivation, while serviceable, lacks the depth that could have elevated the conflict to more memorable heights.
Despite these minor shortcomings, “Despicable Me 4” succeeds in delivering a fun, family-friendly adventure that captures the spirit of the franchise while pushing it in new directions. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these characters and the skill of the filmmakers that the fourth installment can still feel fresh and entertaining.
Critical Response:
Critics have generally responded positively to “Despicable Me 4,” praising its humor, animation quality, and the voice performances of the cast. The film currently holds a 72% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics noting its ability to entertain both children and adults. Some reviewers have pointed out that while the film doesn’t reinvent the franchise, it provides a satisfying continuation of the series’ themes and characters.
Three Life Lessons:
- Family bonds can overcome any challenge when working together.
- It’s never too late to change and become a better person.
- Embracing new responsibilities, even when difficult, can lead to personal growth and happiness.
Conclusion:
“Despicable Me 4” is a worthy addition to the franchise, offering a blend of humor, heart, and adventure that will satisfy fans and newcomers alike. While it may not reach the heights of the series’ best entries, it provides solid entertainment and reinforces the enduring appeal of Gru and his lovable family.
Where to Stream:
The film will be available for streaming on Peacock approximately 45 days after its theatrical release.
Comment Prompt:
What was your favorite Minion moment in “Despicable Me 4,” and how do you think it compares to their antics in previous films?