Despicable Me 4: A Franchise Running Out of Steam

The Despicable Me franchise has been a behemoth in the world of animation, churning out hit after hit. However, with the latest installment, it’s clear that the law of diminishing returns has finally caught up. Despicable Me 4 is a lackluster attempt to squeeze out more juice from a franchise that’s running on fumes.

A still from the movie

The plot is as inconsequential as the minions swarming around, with none of the laughs and little of the warmth that made the previous films so endearing. Gru (Steve Carell) has added a new member to his family, a baby, but even that’s not enough to inject some much-needed freshness into the story.

The main villain, Maxime de Mal (Will Ferrell), is a pretty forgettable character, with a power that’s more ridiculous than menacing. His girlfriend, Valentina (Sofia Vergara), is wasted in a role that’s more of an afterthought. The two of them are after Gru and his family, forcing them to go into hiding in a “safe house.”

Gru’s family in their new surroundings

The safe house is where the story should have focused, as the Grus (or the Cunnighams, as they call themselves) try to lead an ordinary life next door to some pretty uppity neighbors. Perry (Stephen Colbert) is the standout among them, with his hilarious reactions to Gru’s attempts to make friends and “blend in.”

Meanwhile, Lucy (Kristen Wiig) and the girls are battling their own transition, into a new job, a new school, and some karate lessons. They also have to deal with their mean neighbor’s daughter, Poppy (Joey King), who’s not afraid to speak her mind.

Poppy, the mean neighbor’s daughter

But instead of exploring these interesting storylines, the film gets bogged down in Maxime’s ludicrous attempts to track Gru down, a school of villainy called Lycee Pas Bon, and Gru’s mentor Silas tinkering with minions to make them “mega minions.” It’s a mess of a plot that fails to deliver on its promise.

The minions in action

The film does throw in some nostalgic value with flashes of old hits like “Karma Chameleon” and “Everybody Wants to Rule The World.” But even that’s not enough to save this lackluster installment.

The poster for Despicable Me 4

In conclusion, Despicable Me 4 is a disappointing addition to the franchise. It’s a cash-grab that lacks the heart and humor of its predecessors. Even the most die-hard fans of the series will find themselves yawning at the too-familiar antics of Gru and his minions.

Gru and his trusty minions

Rating: 1/5