"Minions: The Rise of Gru" is a 2022 animated comedy film directed by Kyle Balda, with Brad Ableson and Jonathan del Val serving as co-directors.
It is the sequel to the 2015 film "Minions" and the fifth overall installment in the Despicable Me franchise. The film features returning voices of Steve Carell as young Gru and Pierre Coffin as the Minions, along with new characters voiced by Taraji P. Henson, Michelle Yeoh, RZA, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Lucy Lawless, Dolph Lundgren, Danny Trejo, and Alan Arkin.
Set in the 1970s, "Minions: The Rise of Gru" explores the origin story of Gru as an aspiring supervillain. The young Gru dreams of becoming the world's greatest villain and idolizes the Vicious 6, a team of supervillains led by the ruthless Belle Bottom (voiced by Taraji P. Henson). When one of the members, Wild Knuckles (voiced by Alan Arkin), is ousted from the group, Gru sees an opportunity to join the Vicious 6.
To prove himself, Gru steals a valuable artifact called the Zodiac Stone from the Vicious 6, with the help of his loyal Minions. However, things go awry when the Minions lose the stone, leading to a series of comedic and action-packed events. Gru finds himself on the run from the Vicious 6 and must team up with Wild Knuckles, who becomes an unlikely mentor, to thwart the villains' plans.
Throughout the film, the Minions, including Kevin, Stuart, Bob, and the newcomer Otto, embark on their own hilarious adventures to recover the Zodiac Stone and assist Gru in his quest. Their antics and misadventures add a layer of humor and charm that fans of the franchise have come to love.
"Minions: The Rise of Gru" delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The film showcases Gru's early attempts at villainy, his growing bond with the Minions, and his journey toward becoming the iconic character seen in the "Despicable Me" series.
The film received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences, who praised its humor, animation, and nostalgic 1970s setting. It was a commercial success, grossing over $940 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2022.
Overall, "Minions: The Rise of Gru" offers an entertaining and heartwarming look at Gru's origins, enriched by the Minions' comedic antics and a vibrant, retro atmosphere, continuing to delight fans of the Despicable Me franchise.