Despicable Me 4 (2024) Movie Review: A Delightful Return for Gru and His Minions
Release Date: July 3, 2024
Director: Chris Renaud, Pierre Coffin
Voice Cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Pierre Coffin, Taraji P. Henson, Russell Brand, Alan Arkin
Despicable Me 4 marks the return of everyone’s favorite supervillain-turned-dad, Gru (voiced by Steve Carell), and his army of mischievous Minions. After the success of Despicable Me 3 (2017) and the two Minions movies, Illumination Entertainment has delivered another fun-filled installment that continues the franchise’s tradition of humor, heart, and adventure. The film brings back beloved characters while introducing new challenges and villains that add fresh excitement to the series.
Plot Summary
The story picks up where the last film left off, with Gru enjoying his somewhat peaceful life alongside his wife, Lucy (Kristen Wiig), and their three adopted daughters, Margo, Edith, and Agnes. However, it’s not long before trouble arises in the form of a new villain, Velda Nefario (voiced by Taraji P. Henson), the rebellious granddaughter of Gru’s former associate, Dr. Nefario (Russell Brand).
Velda is determined to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps, taking supervillainy to the next level with her high-tech gadgets and dangerous schemes. She seeks revenge on Gru for turning away from his evil ways and embracing a family-oriented lifestyle. Meanwhile, the Minions, led once again by the hilarious Kevin, Stuart, and Bob, are caught up in their usual antics, bringing chaos and comedy wherever they go.
Gru must balance his duties as a father and husband with the responsibility of saving the world—again. With the help of Lucy, the Minions, and some unexpected allies, Gru faces off against Velda in a battle that tests his strength, cunning, and loyalty to his family.
Character Dynamics
Gru and Lucy
Steve Carell continues to shine as Gru, effortlessly blending humor with emotional depth. His journey from a villain to a devoted family man has always been at the heart of the Despicable Me series, and this film is no different. Gru’s struggle to protect his family while navigating the return of villainy to his life is both funny and touching.
Kristen Wiig’s Lucy remains a fun and supportive partner for Gru, contributing her own set of skills to their crime-fighting efforts. The dynamic between Gru and Lucy is filled with comedic moments, but it also highlights the strength of their relationship as they face new challenges together.
The Minions
The Minions, voiced by Pierre Coffin, are once again the comedic backbone of the film. Their slapstick humor, silly language, and mischievous antics provide plenty of laughs, especially as they attempt to help Gru in ways that often backfire spectacularly. While the Minions have always been scene-stealers, their loyalty to Gru is heartwarming, and their escapades add much of the light-hearted fun that fans have come to expect from the franchise.
New Villain: Velda Nefario
Taraji P. Henson’s portrayal of Velda Nefario injects new life into the villainous side of the story. Velda is fierce, ambitious, and seeks to prove that she can outdo her grandfather’s legacy. Her character is well-crafted, combining both humor and menace, and her high-tech gadgets and plans make for some thrilling action sequences. The showdown between Velda and Gru adds fresh excitement to the series while maintaining the charm that made the earlier films so successful.
Animation and Visuals
As with previous installments, Despicable Me 4 boasts stunning animation and vibrant visuals. The action scenes are fast-paced, filled with explosions, chases, and the trademark gadgets that have become a hallmark of the franchise. The Minions’ chaotic energy is beautifully captured, and the film’s colorful, imaginative settings help create a playful and visually appealing atmosphere.
Illumination has continued to push the boundaries of animation, making each scene visually engaging. The attention to detail in the characters’ expressions and movements enhances both the comedic and emotional moments, drawing audiences deeper into the story.
Themes and Emotional Core
At its heart, Despicable Me 4 is about the importance of family and the choices we make to protect and support those we love. Gru’s relationship with his daughters is as touching as ever, with the film exploring how he juggles being a father with his past as a villain. The connection between Gru and Lucy also grows stronger, as they face new challenges together, reinforcing the theme of teamwork and support.
The introduction of Velda Nefario as a young, ambitious villain also touches on themes of legacy and the desire to prove oneself. Her journey, though antagonistic, mirrors some of Gru’s earlier struggles with identity and purpose, creating a compelling contrast between the two characters.
Humor and Action
As expected from a Despicable Me movie, the humor is spot-on. The Minions, with their childlike antics and silly gags, deliver plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Their scenes, from wreaking havoc in Gru’s lab to causing trouble in the outside world, provide the perfect comic relief. Gru’s dry wit and Lucy’s energetic personality add balance to the Minions’ zaniness, creating a well-rounded comedic experience for all ages.
The action sequences are also a highlight, with inventive gadgets, explosive set-pieces, and fast-paced chases. Whether it’s a battle in the skies or a Minion-filled rescue mission, the film maintains a high level of excitement, ensuring that younger audiences remain engaged throughout.
Conclusion: A Worthy Addition to the Franchise
Despicable Me 4 is a delightful addition to the franchise, offering the perfect mix of humor, heart, and adventure. While it doesn’t drastically reinvent the series, it continues to build on what fans love about the previous films—memorable characters, hilarious Minions, and heartfelt family moments. The new villain, Velda Nefario, adds a fresh dynamic to the story, keeping things exciting and entertaining.
For families and fans of the series, this movie delivers on all fronts, making it a must-watch in 2024. Whether you’re tuning in for the Minions’ antics or Gru’s heartfelt journey, Despicable Me 4 will leave you smiling.
Where to Watch
Following its theatrical release on July 3, 2024, Despicable Me 4 will be available for digital purchase and rental on major platforms such as:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
It is also expected to stream on platforms like Peacock shortly after its release, as Illumination’s films typically find a home on NBC’s streaming service.
