Movie: Despicable Me 2
Director: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud
Cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Benjamin Bratt, Miranda Cosgrove, Russell Brand, Elsie Kate Fisher, Ken Jeong and Steve Coogan
Rating: ***1/2
Animation films over the years have introduced us to a bevy of very special characters that have lived on forever in our memories. Some of these characters include “Sid the Sloth” and “Scrat” from “Ice Age”, “Donkey” from “Shrek”, “Woody” from “Toy Story”, “Finley” from “Oz the Great and Powerful”. Likewise, In “Despicable Me 2”, it’s the return of the most adorable yellow creatures called Minions, makes you want to revisit the film for the sheer joy of entertainment.
Gru (Steve Carell) is a changed man now and he doesn’t like to be a villain, thanks to his three daughters – Margo, Edith and Agnes. Now, He runs his own business of jams and jellies with the help of his legion of Minions and Dr. Nefario, while playing a lovable father.
But, when a top secret research lab containing a secret formula (named PX-41) that could threaten the entire civilization disappears into thin air, Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League, headed by Silas Ramsbottom to stop this new villain. His partner is an orange-haired funny woman named Lucy Wilde.
Will Gru with the help of Lucy succeed in their mission? This forms the rest of the story.
It’s a Minions film all the way with the presence of few more characters. They sweep you off your feet with their adorability and there is no way you’re not going to laugh out loud. Unlike the prequel, they have an extended presence in part 2, with scenes that have been specially written and dedicated for their mischief. Their incredible chemistry with just about anybody, cute expressions and the weird sounds they make are super hilarious.
We have an array of new characters, but not all of them are really interesting, but for Gru’s partner Lucy, featuring the voice of Kristen Wiig. She is exactly opposite to Gru, and he is not even close to be the person she would want, yet they get attracted to each other. The complicated but sweet relationship between the two is a delight to watch.
In fact, love plays an important role in this part. Besides Gru, his eldest daughter Margo too is struck by love. Even Dave, one of Gru’s many Minions, falls in love. This love theme is what sets this sequel apart from the original.
The animation is incredible with lots of vibrant colors and very detailed. The 3D is more of a gimmick though, but some scenes are especially personalized for 3D as they literally pop out of the screen, especially the end credits.
“Despicable Me 2” in no way can supersede its prequel, but it sure does know how to entertain. For once, dump your boyfriends or girlfriends, and go fall in love with the Minions, and I’m sure you wouldn’t regret it.
