Comedy and chaos by the bucket load!
After writing a film review, I’ll often ‘take a peek’ to see what others are saying about the movie. I had a strong feeling that Despicable Me 4 was going to get mixed reviews – and that’s quite an understatement. I completely see both sides of the spectrum on this occasion.
This fourth instalment of the popular franchise sees Gru (Steve Carell) return with an expanding family – cue the arrival of Gru Jr, his newborn son.
Unfortunately, the baby doesn’t seem to have a strong bond with his father and even appears to hate him, which becomes a recurring joke throughout the film.
But the main plot takes a thrilling turn when Gru’s old classmate, Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell), escapes from prison and seeks revenge on Gru and his family. To protect themselves, they’re forced to move to a safe house and assume new identities.
Adding to the excitement, the film also introduces superhero Minions. It’s a lot to take in. The movie almost feels like a combination of three sequels merged into one. This results in a jam-packed ninety minutes of action, slapstick comedy, and pure chaos. I felt like I’d consumed a ton of ‘E numbers’ prior to the screening!
From a critical standpoint, I would have preferred fewer characters and plot revelations, to allow more character development and depth. That being said, I’m well aware that I’m not the target audience of this franchise.
Speaking of which, my five-year-old son loved every minute of it. He was captivated by the utter madness unfolding on screen, and whenever he appeared to be losing interest, the mischievous Minions would reappear and bring him back into the story. Did my son walk out and pretentiously declare: “It needed more depth!” No, of course not.
And that’s why I can see why so many people are both loving Despicable Me 4 and hating it in equal measures.
It has its flaws, but it ultimately succeeds in entertaining its intended audience – and my positive rating is largely based on that.
Which is hardly a ‘despicable’ way to grade such a colourful animation.
ESP Rating:
4/5 Mike Clarke
(and if you’re curious my son rated it 30/10!)
Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough, Out Now
Voice Cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Joey King, Sofia Vergara, Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, Steve Coogan & Pierre Coffin
Running Time: 1 Hr 35 Mins
Director: Chris Renaud
Go to www.showcasecinemas.co.uk for all the latest film information & showtimes at Peterborough’s Showcase Cinema De Lux
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