Shane’s Movie Review: Despicable Me 2

Despicable Me 2 is a must-see family film that adults will enjoy as much as the kids.

The original was a surprise blockbuster hit in 2010, which I liked very much. It was bright, effervescent, unique and most of all very funny. It had an infectious greatness that made an audience happy, and so does the sequel.

The “Minions,” those loyal rotund yellow wide-eyed barrels of amusement are again the life of the film with more screen time and superior ‘Benny Hill’ style hijinks. Steve Carell returns as the voice of former master villain Gru, a doting Father to his three adopted girls Margot, Agnes and Edith.

Gru no longer wants to take over the world with evil schemes; he lives as a passive neighborhood type that does nothing but make sure others are happy around him. Reluctantly recruited by hot super spy Agent Lucy Wilde (Kristen Wiig) representing an outfit known as the Anti-Villains League (AVL), Gru simply says “no,” hoping to remain living the quiet life.

Unbeknownst to Gru, an old arch enemy has returned to cause havoc amongst innocent bystanders at the local shopping mall. Gru is now all about being good and chooses not to reignite his fury against this old foe. However, after some hilarious persuasive techniques from the leggy and very single Agent Wilde, Gru agrees to help out the AVL. Could the unobtainable Gru be falling in love?

In the meantime, the girls are growing up, escially Margot. Wonderfully voiced by Nickelodeon tween star Miranda Cosgrove, Margot starts noticing boys much to Gru’s annoyance.

This is a respectable sequel that goes in different directions. Character development is key; heartstrings are tugged on a regular basis with Gru’s lovingly acceptance of his beloved girls. Also, listen out for a random Australian reference during the latter period.

Comic relief comes in spades from the Minions; so much so I believe they deserve their own movie. And don’t leave early! The yellow troublemakers have their own set of bloopers during the end credits.

Soon to be seen in the much anticipated Anchorman 2, Steve Carell is superior as the odd looking and enigmatic Gru. At the recent premiere, he told me himself his early years as a stand-up comedian helps with the unpredictable nature of being a voice character in such a genius film as this.

Despicable Me 2 hits theaters in the U.S. on July 3, 2013. It opens earlier in Australia on June 20, 2013.

Shane A. Bassett is a contributor for TheYoungFolks.com. Read more about him on our Partners & Contributors page.