ILLUMINATION’s fourth installment to the “Despicable Me” franchise has Felonious Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) go on his latest minion-filled, villain-thwarting adventure as they welcome a sixth member into their growing family: Felonious Gru Junior.
“Despicable Me 4,” which premiered in Philippine cinemas on July 3, features an action-packed comedy film with family values, served on an adorable, crazy, and colorful platter. TikTok moms were quick to flock to movie theaters for the film’s advanced screening at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, held two days before its global opening.
“It’s a mother-daughter bonding!” TikToker StressFreeMommyPH said, while showcasing the toys and freebies they got from the event with her daughter, Jade.
Several Filipino moviegoers and their families went to the cinemas clad in matching yellow clothes and denim suspenders. They talked about their movie experience on TikTok, including the toys they got from a fast-food chain and the mascots they met.
Mixed reviews
While some enjoyed the movie, other viewers from the foreign community were not satisfied with it.
Brian Lowry from CNN described the film as a “tired, disjointed medley of madcap visual gags,” stressing that it only tested whether or not the franchise would continue making movies given its messy structure.
“Whatever novelty existed when the franchise made its debut 14 years ago, the creative returns have diminished with each incarnation, if not the financial incentives,” he added.
Katie Walsh from The Spokesman-Review wrote that although the characters remain charming and consistent with their personalities, the story’s inclusion of several conflicts and twists made it seem like the writers were “throwing random ideas at the wall without much thought put into how or why it might all fit together.”
“…this installment is so noisy and aimless, it feels like they didn’t just hit the end of the road, they kept going past the limit,” said Walsh, mentioning how the movie’s format may be messy and unappealing to adults and repeating viewers, given that its target market is kids.
But Rachel Labonte, also from Screen Rant, argued that although the movie has unnecessary plots and a lack of screentime for the daughters, it can still be enjoyed for its “energetic animation and zippy action.” She also noted that Will Ferrel’s villain was a great addition to the film, highlighting that his performance felt like a true nemesis to the formerly despicable Gru.
Meanwhile, Paraluman Funtanilla from the Filipino news magazine Tutubi said that the “overstuffed plot” did not get in the way of the movie’s “carefree charm.”
“While it might not break new ground, it will undoubtedly entertain fans and keep the Minion mania alive,” she said.
About ‘Despicable Me 4’
In “Despicable Me 4”, Gru becomes a fully dedicated family man. He is completely reformed from his villainous behavior from his first appearance, especially after his work at the Anti-Villain League (AVL) where he met his wife, Lucy Wilde (voiced by Kristen Wiig).
Gru and his family’s peaceful days were halted when formerly retired AVL Director Silas Ramsbottom (voiced by Steve Coogan) warned them of a possible demise concerning villains, voiced by Will Ferrell and Sofia Vergara, who wanted to endanger them.
Siblings Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier), and Agnes (Madison Polan) also come with their own problems of childhood education. The minions continue to be lively with their endless humor and teasing personalities, but with mega surprises coming to them later on.
“Despicable Me 4” is the sixth movie in the franchise, including the Minions spin-offs: 2015’s “Minions” and 2022’s “Minions: Rise of Gru.” The latest film is directed by Chis Renaud and Patrick Delage, produced by Chris Meledandri and Brett Hoffman, and screenplay and written by Mike White and Ken Daurio.
