by Rosa Parra

In 2024, amidst the release of several fourth entries from well-known movie franchises like “Planet of the Apes” and “Kung Fu Panda,” there’s one franchise that stands out with its unique charm–the “Despicable Me” series. This is the series that introduced the world to the lovable minions and a memorable villain, and now it’s back with its fourth installment.

“Despicable Me 4” boasts a star-studded cast with Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Will Ferrell, Joey King, Miranda Cosgrove, Madison Polan and Dana Gaier lending their voices. The story follows Gru (Carell) and his family as they welcome a new member, Gru Jr., and are forced to go on the run after a villain, Maxime (Ferrell), threatens them.

Regardless of critical acclaim, there is no question that the “Despicable Me” franchise is one of the most well-known and financially successful. This fourth entry into the saga (although technically it is the fifth. We aren’t counting “Minions: The Rise of Gru”) is a decent enough film with the potential to continue its predecessors’ financial success. However, the story is thin with some subplots–such as the family’s new identities and the introduction of new characters–that carry little to no weight in the overall narrative, which may disappoint some viewers.

The family moves to another city and must change their identities to stay under Maxime’s radar. Margo must attend a new school while Agnes and Edith begin attending a new karate class. Lucy must pretend to be a hairstylist while Gru is a solar panel salesman. The minions are taken to AVL (Anti Villain League) headquarters, where some undergo an experiment to give them powers. Gru Jr. isn’t too fond of his father forcing them to spend more time together. Several new characters are introduced, including Poppy (King), the next-door neighbor’s daughter, who is initially introduced as a nemesis to Gru. Still, their story’s outcome does not impact the overall main story. It only serves as an opportunity for Gru and Gru Jr. to bond.

Maxime is a missed opportunity for the talented Ferrell to display his versatility. His character comes across as an one-dimensional antagonist with no purpose other than to seek revenge for something that occurred when he was young. The lack of depth in his character development is a missed opportunity for the movie to explore a more complex villain, which could have added more intrigue to the story. Everyone else is okay. However, it’s Gru Jr. and the minions who shine the most. Gru Jr. has several hilarious encounters, but when he is being cared for by the minions, it’s the ultimate uproarious moment.

At 95 minutes, the movie does as expected, and there is no in-depth message to take away, only that I would love to see a Minions and Gru Jr. movie. The film is aimed at kids, and the children at my screening were all having a blast.

Overall, “Despicable Me 4” is a fine entry to the franchise that will entertain the young audience—but it’s nothing profound, it’s simply Despicable Meh.

2.5/5