When Minions: The Rise of Gru was first announced, I assumed that it was going to be an unfunny mess. I didn’t really enjoy the previous Minions film, and I wasn’t super swept by Despicable Me 2 or 3.
However, I decided to give the next Minions film a chance, because why not?
Needless to say, I very much enjoyed the film. I was honestly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Although I’m most certainly not the target market, I still liked it.
Minions: The Rise of Gru follows the story of how Gru became the supervillain we know in Despicable Me. We find out that the Minions responded to an ad by Gru looking to hire henchmen. Gru is a more awkward student in school with a decently non-existent relationship with his mother. However, his dream is to join a villain group called the Vicious 6.
The Vicious 6 was founded by villain Wild Knuckles, who wanted to go on heists with his friends. The group was composed of the following members: Belle Bottom, Jean-Clawde, Svengeance, Nun-Chuck, and Stronghold. Each character seems to fulfill the comedic role well and it was interestingly funny.
The Vicious 6 then oust founder Wild Knuckles and are looking for a replacement. Gru goes to interview to get the job where he meets a character named Nefario–yes, that’s Dr. Nefario. Nefario then gives Gru a gadget that has a sticky hand, which Gru uses to steal the Zodiac stone from the Vicious 6.
The rest of the film is fast, with the Minions trying to get back Gru, who was kidnapped by Wild Knuckles. However, Gru and Wild Knuckles form a powerful partnership where Gru is taught villainy by Wild Knuckles.
The Minions engage in some crazy antics, including a nod to Quentin Tarantino with a kung-fu sequence. Talkative Otto goes on a biking adventure across California and the Minions manage to save Gru with the help of Wild Knuckles from the Vicious 6.
With its slapstick humor, references to the Despicable Me films, and loads of fun, Minions: The Rise of Gru is a fantastic film and one that is sure to entertain children anywhere. Even as an adult, I found myself quite enjoying this film.
So, if you’re a parent looking for something to do this weekend, go give it a watch with your kids!
Overall Score: 7/10
Zainah Yousef
Zainah Yousef is the author of The Fallen Age Saga and specializes in gaming, social media advice, and reviews. She's been writing all her life and she probably won't stop anytime soon.
