Despicable Me 4: A Slightly Tired Yet Charming Continuation of the Iconic Franchise

Gru and Lucy are back with their antics in Despicable Me 4.

The release of Despicable Me 4 is upon us, and central to the Despicable Me franchise’s evergreen popularity is its ability to deliver familiar characters in new adventures. This latest installment revolves around Gru, voiced once again by the ever-charismatic Steve Carell, as he navigates the chaotic waters of family and villainy, with his trusty wife Lucy (played by Kristen Wiig) by his side.

With the previous sequel achieving monumental success at the box office, it’s no wonder Universal Pictures has chosen to continue this animated saga. The charming Minions alongside Gru’s ever-quirky family offer a blend of humor that, while perhaps not groundbreaking, guarantees a few chuckles. Despite an air of predictability, fans find comfort in the familiar narrative style and whimsical visuals that define this animated universe. Despicable Me 4 carries on this tradition but may struggle under the weight of its own expectations.

Meet the New Villain

In Despicable Me 4, a fresh antagonist emerges—Maxime Le Mal, splendidly brought to life by Will Ferrell. Maxime’s transformation abilities provide an intriguing, albeit bizarre, dimension to the plot as he morphs into a cockroach. The film introduces some twisted humor that some audiences might find amusing, while others could deem it a low point. As Gru embarks on the quest to locate this new nemesis, he inadvertently drags his family into a whirlwind of misadventures, forcing them to assume disguises and lay low in a safe house.

Just when you think the franchise can’t possibly go any further into comedic chaos, it seamlessly transitions to family bonding where Gru’s newly introduced son (yet to win over the audience) displays a comical disdain for his father’s antics. The side plot with a snarky neighbor, voiced by Stephen Colbert, brings some charming interplay reminiscent of their days in The Daily Show, yet feels slightly forced amidst the escapades.

Maxime Le Mal, the new villain in town.

A Parade of Gags and Visual Quirks

As expected, the film is laden with a barrage of slapstick comedy, primarily courtesy of the beloved Minions. Their escapades deliver the sort of humor that appeals to children and adults alike, although how much of it can genuinely evoke laughter is another matter. The film does introduce an interesting concept with a group of enhanced Minions proudly flaunting powers reminiscent of the Fantastic Four. However, this potential is squandered, leaving audiences wishing for more substantial story elements alongside the unending visual gags.

One such gag showcases the Minions performing a diaper change with comedic precision, culminating in a flying soiled diaper—a moment symbolic of the film’s generally disposable narrative. It’s a metaphor for the film’s essence: entertaining yet trivial, leaving impressionable moments by the wayside as it moves swiftly from one visual delight to another.

The Franchise’s Familiar Charm

All critique aside, Despicable Me 4 maintains a level of charm, an element that has characterized the franchise since its inception over a decade ago. While the heights reached by the original might not be replicated here, there’s a consistency that fans have grown to appreciate. Despite new additions like Maxime and his femme fatale partner Valentina, portrayed by Joey King, they don’t significantly enhance the film’s experience and may soon be forgotten. However, the interactions between Gru and his new son evolve into the film’s standout moments, illuminating the dynamic of familial love amidst the chaos of villainy and comical misdirection.

Gru Jr. Gru’s new son brings in a unique dynamic to the family.

Final Thoughts

While it may not garner awards or accolades for innovation, Despicable Me 4 provides a light-hearted outing perfect for family fun over the July 4th holiday. As families flock to theaters, it promises a delightful afternoon filled with enough laughter and visual flair to keep audiences entertained, even if just for a moment.

Ultimately, the true strength of the franchise lies in its reliability. Fans can always count on these films to deliver familiar narratives wrapped in that undeniable charm that Despicable Me has established throughout the years. So while we may roll our eyes at the formula, we can’t help but be charmed by the antics, reminding us why we fell in love with these characters to begin with.

Despicable Me 4 officially releases in theaters on July 3, rated PG—a surefire hit for family entertainment!