Animation fans have a new option for family movie night: Minions: The Rise of Gru is now streaming on Netflix. The 2022 hit, starring Steve Carell and featuring a large ensemble cast, landed on the platform today, bringing the popular Despicable Me prequel to a wider audience. The film earned over $940 million at the global box office during its theatrical run, solidifying its place as one of Universal Pictures’ highest-grossing animated movies.
The arrival of Minions: The Rise of Gru on Netflix provides a convenient way to revisit the origins of Gru, the supervillain-in-training, and his mischievous Minion helpers. The film serves as the second installment in the Minions prequel series, exploring Gru’s childhood and his aspirations to join a notorious group of supervillains known as the Vicious 6.
Minions: The Rise of Gru boasts a star-studded voice cast, with Steve Carell reprising his role as Gru. Will Arnett and Steve Coogan return as Mr. Perkins and Silas Ramsbottom, respectively, from the main Despicable Me franchise. Pierre Coffin once again voices the Minions, while the film introduces new voice talent including Alan Arkin as Wild Knuckles, Taraji P. Henson as Belle Bottom, and Michelle Yeoh as Master Chow. Julie Andrews, Russell Brand, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundgren, Danny Trejo, and Lucy Lawless also lend their voices to the animated adventure.
A 1970s-Set Adventure
Set in the 1970s, the film follows a young Gru as he navigates suburban life and attempts to prove his villainous potential. According to the official synopsis, Gru is a devoted fan of the Vicious 6 and concocts a plan to develop into evil enough to earn their respect. With the help of his loyal Minions – including the new addition, Otto, a Minion with braces – Gru embarks on a series of chaotic missions.
The plot thickens when Gru inadvertently outsmarts the Vicious 6, making himself their enemy. Forced to go on the run, Gru seeks guidance from an unexpected source: the Vicious 6’s former leader, Wild Knuckles. The story emphasizes the importance of friendship, even for those on the path to villainy.
Critical Reception and Production Details
Minions: The Rise of Gru has received generally positive reviews, currently holding a Popcornmeter score of 89% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film was directed by Kyle Balda, Brad Ableson, and Jonathan del Val, with a screenplay by Matthew Fogel, based on a story by Fogel and Brian Lynch. Chris Renaud and Chris Meledandri served as producers, with Latifa Ouaou and Brett Hoffman as executive producers. Heitor Pereira composed the film’s score.
The success of Minions: The Rise of Gru underscores the enduring popularity of the Despicable Me franchise and the appeal of its quirky characters. The film’s availability on Netflix is expected to further expand its reach and introduce a new generation of viewers to the world of Gru and the Minions.
As Netflix continues to bolster its library of animated content, the addition of this $940 million blockbuster demonstrates the platform’s commitment to providing family-friendly entertainment options. Viewers can now enjoy the comedic adventures of Gru and the Minions from the comfort of their homes.
What will the future hold for Gru and the Minions? Fans can anticipate further installments in the Despicable Me franchise, with Illumination continuing to develop new stories and adventures for these beloved characters. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming projects, and releases.
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