Despicable Me Review

 There are no spoilers in this review.

PLOT: When a criminal mastermind uses a trio of orphan girls as pawns for a grand scheme, he finds himself profoundly changed by the growing love between them.

THE GOOD: Execution. Despicable Me takes elements from some of the more popular animation studios to make a family-friendly, funny, and touching story. It borrows from Disney/Pixar in the movie's heart. It has a big one and it really shows towards the end of the movie. It's like a DreamWorks Animation film in that it's an unconventional story. I loved how the villain, Gru, is made out to be the hero. It's a tough thing to pull off. I find that I really enjoy characters in movies and show who start out bad, but redeem themselves by doing something good in the end. There is even a Warner Bros. Looney Toons influence in there from all of the absurd slapstick comedy. You know, things that people wouldn't actually survive or simply walk away from like getting eaten by a shark or having a few rockets hit you. Much of the comedy comes from Gru's lovable minions who are shaped like yellow medicine pills. Chances are you've already seen these silly characters who speak like Alvin the Chipmunk, but with even higher voices.

Agnes. I had a grin on my face every time Agnes came on screen. She's the youngest of the three girls and says some of the cutest things. If you have seen the trailer, she's the one who says "It's so fluffy!". She's adorable. Reminds me of my daughter a little. Agnes is voiced by Elsie Fisher who I'll bet we'll see (or hear) more of in the future.

THE BAD: Not memorable. While I don't think there's anything bad about the film, it's still not very memorable. It's a fun, enjoyable family film, but I don't think kids would want to watch it over and over and over again. I could be wrong. I underestimate kids these days. Even the father-daughter theme of the film doesn't quite resonate, but is welcomed.


THE END: Despicable Me is a good film, but when you compare it to the storytelling in Toy Story 3 and How to Train Your Dragon, it doesn't quite engage the audience. It's a great family film and certainly appreciated by members of the father-daughter community. Not only do I strongly encourage all dads to see this with their girls, but all families should view this movie together. Check it out now, or in the cheap theatres.

DISCUSS: Did you like Despicable Me? What was your favorite part? Who is your favorite characters? Did you like it more than Toy Story 3 or How to Train Your Dragon?