March 29, 2024

‘Despicable Me 2’: The Reviews Are In!

In case those ubiquitous billboards featuring funny-faced yellow pills hadn’t tipped you off, “Despicable Me 2” is coming to theaters this week, reuniting Gru with his wacky Minions for a whole new set of adventures. In this follow-up to the 2009 blockbuster, Gru (Steve Carell) trades in his supervillain costume in exchange for the life of a super-dad, only to find domestic bliss — and single-parenthood — challenged by the arrival of Lucy Wilde (Kristen Wiig), a government operative hoping to enlist him to hunt down another former baddie who’s disappeared.

Whether or not Gru becomes a bona fide hero, the film certainly promises some hilarious hijinks. But do they live up to the ones in the original “Despicable Me?” MTV News took a look at some of the reviews that popped up as the film nears its July 3 release date and compiled some critics’ thoughts about the film.

How Worthy — Or Necessary — Is This Follow-Up To ‘Despicable Me?’
“This new picture feels like… a hastily thought-up opportunity to put our characters through some kind of adventure. Any kind of adventure. Whereas the original had Steve Carell’s evil genius and his cache of spazzed-out weapons trying to hijack the moon, this film sends him to the mall.” — Jordan Hoffman, Screencrush

Still, What Can Audiences Look Forward To In the Sequel?
“After reluctantly admitting that he made a second-rate baddie at best, Steve Carell’s overcompensating character gets a chance to prove himself a first-class hero, providing ample opportunity for comic support from his Minions. While not quite as charming or unique as the original, ‘Despicable Me 2’ comes awfully close, extending co-directors Chris Renaud and Pierre Coffin’s delightfully silly sensibility to a bit larger universe.” — Peter Debruge, Variety

How Are Steve Carell And Kristen Wiig As A Comedic Couple?
“Steve Carell’s Slavic inflections as Gru do the trick, as before. Wiig’s clever hesitations and comic timing help save the day.” — Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune

Pharrell’s ‘Despicable Me 2’ Soundtrack Makes Him ‘The Luckiest Guy’

Will Grown-Ups And Kids Be Enertained?
“Little kids won’t be too bored, but adults who found themselves charmed by the first “Despicable Me” may or may not be along for the ride this time. Universal has already announced a third sequel, ‘Minions’ (which, sadly, isn’t solely centered on those walking ids), and here’s hoping Gru can be a little despicable-r next time.” — Alonso Duralde, The Wrap

How Funny Are Those Minions?
“The minions also routinely score on the comedy front, though let’s be clear, they are basically glorified little yellow stooges. Their humor is completely based upon miscommunication and physical comedy. Again, not a bad thing, but a worry as the series goes forward, because physical comedy tends to wear thin if continually repeated.” — Laremy Legel, Film.com

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