Cast
View AllSteve Carell
as Gru (voice)
Pierre Coffin
as Kevin / Stuart / Bob / Minions (voice)
Alan Arkin
as Wild Knuckles (voice)
Taraji P. Henson
as Belle Bottom (voice)
Michelle Yeoh
as Master Chow (voice)
Julie Andrews
as Gru's Mom (voice)
Russell Brand
as Dr. Nefario (voice)
Jean-Claude Van Damme
as Jean Clawed (voice)
Dolph Lundgren
as Svengeance (voice)
Danny Trejo
as Stronghold (voice)
Lucy Lawless
as Nun-Chuck (voice)
Jimmy O. Yang
as Henchman 1 (voice)
Kevin Michael Richardson
as Henchman 2 (voice)
John DiMaggio
as Henchman 3 (voice)
RZA
as Biker (voice)
Crew
Director
- Kyle Balda
Producer
- Chris Meledandri
- Janet Healy
- Chris Renaud
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Eleven year old 'Gru" is asked by his school teacher what he wants to be when he grows up. "A super villain" he retorts - to the derision of his classmates. Little do they know, though, that he has applied to join the "Vicious Six" who have, themselves, just dumped their founder member "Wild Knuckles". They aren't so impressed when he turns up at the interview but he uses his newly designed glue-gun to escape with their all powerful, emerald encrusted, stone. Now the five are on the warpath as he entrusts the stone to his minion friend "Otto", but he manages to swap it for a pebble with eyes so now embarks on a mammoth cycle ride to fetch it back whilst the pursuing villains cause havoc. Luckily, "Wild Knuckles" hasn't given up. He kidnaps "Gru" to get the stone back, but when he realises that he no longer has it, the two form an unlikely, and quite amusing, partnership to retrieve it. I guess I'm just the wrong demographic for this, because although it hits the ground running and never stops for breath, I just didn't really get it. The yellow ovoid creatures are fun, but hardy the stuff of big screen entertainment and the plot reminded me of the recently released "Bad Guys" animation that I didn't much like either. It's my first foray into "Despicable" territory, but the slapstick approach to the whole thing will probably ensure it's my last. Others will love it, I'm sure - the cinema on a Sunday night was packed to the rafters, but this hadn't enough for the grown up in me to remain engaged for long.
Jul 4, 2022
All Things Movies and TV
It sure has been a long wait for the sequel (7 years to be precise) but I think it's safe to say that the film does not disappoint. While the film lacks a strong plot and is louder than its prequel, it easily covers up with delightful comedy, a sprinkle of nostalgia and a satisfying dose of lovable Minions!
Jul 17, 2022
lopezaxel
Very good movie, watched with my family and no regrets on it. Recommend to everybody!.
Aug 15, 2022
The Movie Mob
**Overall : The Rise of Gru returns the franchise to what it does best.**
Minions: The Rise of Gru feels like the franchise is starting to return to what made it great. Bringing back great characters like Gru and Nefario substantiated the movie providing a stronger connection to the Despicable Me movies than the last Minions film. Great Easter eggs, clever jokes, and fun moments throughout equaled a fantastic new entry in this beloved franchise.
Aug 19, 2022
r96sk
Some glow up!
2015's <em>'Minions'</em> wasn't a film I found enjoyment with (6/10, fwiw), but its sequel genuinely entertained thoroughly. It doesn't offer anything truly hilarious, but there were a relatively high number of times where it made me chuckle. I was not expecting anything positive from it, yet it actually pulls through with a fun time. I'd even say it's the best release from the entire franchise.
Steve Carell remains a strong lead for these <em>'Despicable Me'</em> projects, as does Pierre Coffin - the voice of the Minions, of course! Taraji P. Henson is an excellent addition, as is Alan Arkin. Michelle Yeoh is good value too, but her character is a bit lame unfortunately - a bit of a waste of Yeoh, to be honest. Elsewhere, animation-wise: quality - very vibrant!
Lastly, how many butt shots is too many butt shots? I counted at least 3, 4 perhaps: 3(?) x Minions and 1 x Gru. I hope this isn't Kyle Balda's version of Quentin Tarantino's <em>thing</em>...
May 7, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Minions: The Rise of Gru represents a fascinating example of Animation/Comedy/Family/Adventure cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kyle Balda brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2022, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Minions: The Rise of Gru took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $85.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 108 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2022, when this film is released:
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Minions: The Rise of Gru shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ong Bak 3, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Minions: The Rise of Gru subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Captain America: Civil War and Descendants explore similar territory, Minions: The Rise of Gru stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 29, 2022
- Runtime: 1h 27m
- Budget: $85,000,000
- Revenue: $940,203,765
Where to Watch


