Director: Kyle Balda
Writer: Matthew Fogel
Cast: Steve Carrell, Taraji P. Henson, Pierre Coffin, and Alan Arkin
At 12 years old young Gru already knew he wanted to be a supervillain. When the most famous group of villains loses a member, the young man seizes the opportunity to join them. A disastrous audition sets the wheels in motion for a wild adventure that includes, robbery, kidnapping, shape-shifting, and ultimately a valuable lesson on loyalty and friendship.
“The Rise of Gru is the latest installment into the Minions universe of films. The film that started it all “Despicable Me” dates back to 2010. Here we are 12 years later with the 2nd Prequel in this growing franchise. The rise of Gru is more or less a direct sequel to 2015’s Minions movie which ended with the pint-sized yellow trouble makers chasing down a young Gru. This film is a wild ride through the 1970s filled with disco music and references that are clearly for adults but with enough action to keep kiddies entertained. The film begins by introducing Gru’s childhood heroes the Vicious 6 a team of villains who in true villainous form betray their founder causing them to be minus 1 villain. In need of a sixth member, the band of thieves set up auditions and find themselves face to face with young Gru. Following a mockery of an audition, the ambitious youngster steals from the Vicious 6 to prove himself, only to have the item lost by the minions before he can return it. Angrily he fires the yellow menaces and runs in search of the stolen artifact only to be kidnapped. Gru’s kidnapping and the missing artifact lead to a wild cross-country chase filled with incredible voyages, zany new characters, and just a few familiar faces from the franchise. Despite being a madcap adventure the film also features a heartwarming message about loyalty and the true value of friendship. Enjoyable from start to finish Minions: Rise of Gru is a must-see for children of all ages.
Minions: The Rise of Gru is in theaters now!