Despicable Me 4: A Franchise Running on Fumes

The latest installment in the Despicable Me franchise has finally arrived, and it’s clear that the series is running out of steam. With a formulaic plot, lackluster humor, and an overreliance on the Minions, Despicable Me 4 feels like a lazy cash-grab.

The Minions are back, but this time they’re not enough to save the franchise.

The film’s plot is predictable and uninspired, with Gru (Steve Carell) facing off against a new villain, Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell), who has a personal vendetta against our beloved supervillain-turned-hero. The story is filled with tired jokes and references that feel forced and unoriginal.

Maxime Le Mal, the latest villain in the Despicable Me franchise.

One of the biggest problems with Despicable Me 4 is its overreliance on the Minions. While they were once a hilarious novelty, they’ve become a crutch for the franchise, with the film relying on their antics to carry the plot. The Minions are still funny, but they’re not enough to save the film from its overall lack of creativity.

The Minions are back, but they’re not enough to save the franchise.

The voice cast, including Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, and Will Ferrell, do their best with the material they’re given, but even they can’t elevate the film’s subpar script. The film’s humor is stale, and the action scenes are few and far between.

Gru, the lovable supervillain-turned-hero, is back, but this time he’s not enough to save the film.

In the end, Despicable Me 4 feels like a lazy attempt to cash in on the franchise’s success. With a formulaic plot, lackluster humor, and an overreliance on the Minions, it’s clear that the series is running out of steam. Even the most die-hard fans of the franchise will find themselves yawning at the film’s predictable jokes and uninspired action scenes.

Despicable Me 4 is a disappointing addition to the franchise.

It’s time to put the Despicable Me franchise out to pasture. With a lack of creativity and a reliance on tired formulas, it’s clear that the series has run its course. Even the most loyal fans will find themselves disappointed by this lackluster installment.