Despicable Me 2: Review

I only recently saw the first Despicable Me, so the sequel came along at the perfect time. The first movie was a lot more enjoyable than I had previously thought it would be, and the minions were a highlight as some of the funniest characters I've seen in a movie. Luckily the second film features them even more, and they are just as funny as before. The plot is deeper, revolving around Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) as he is approached by the Anti-Villain League in an attempt to discover a mysterious super-villain whom is undercover in a near by mall, partnering Gru with mildly experienced agent Lucy (Kristen Wiig).

The main thing to know about Despicable Me 2 is that your enjoyment of it will almost solely depend on whether or not you liked the first movie. As mentioned, the minions from the first film are present even more in this sequel, and if you found them irritating their more central role might displease you. The introduction of new characters such as villain El Macho (Benjamin Bratt) is a nice bonus, but none really deliver the same enjoyment as seeing all the characters from the first film.

Minions (Pierre Coffin / Chris Renaud)

I will say however that Gru's potential love-interest Lucy is a lot less annoying than the trailers depicted. I'd go as far to say that towards the end of the movie she becomes almost as likeable as Gru himself, which can only be a positive. Certain scenes in the film are also unexpectedly emotional for a family animation, which is yet another reason that it can be enjoyed by anybody, regardless of their age.

Despicable Me 2 does seem to be slightly longer than needed though. I couldn't specifically think of scenes which could be cut out as really they all add to the storyline, but the last 30 minutes doesn't seem quite as enjoyable as the build up. Also, I feel like the comedy in the first movie was much more effective than the second, as characters such as Dr. Nefario (Russell Brand) don't have as much screen-time as before.

The soundtrack to Despicable Me 2 is similar to the first in that it is catchy and memorable, specifically tracks supplied by hugely talented Pharrell Williams whom also helped out in the first film. If anything there aren't enough songs throughout the movie, as any scenes accompanied by the perfectly appropriate music are amongst the best.

Verdict
Despicable Me 2 is just as entertaining as it's origin, possibly more. The minions being more central part of the story was of personal enjoyment as I loved their role in the first movie, and I'm sure many would agree. Basically, if you liked Despicable Me, I would highly recommend seeing the sequel, as it's 'more of the same' but in the best way possible.     8.5/10 

"I have been recruited by a top-secret agency to go undercover and

save the world."