Movie Review: Minions

Movie Review: Minions

Rated: PG
Rating: 8.5/10

Firstly, a disclaimer. I'm two months short of 25 but irrationally obsessed with minions.

So it was with almost unprecedented anticipation and hype that I watched Minions, the Despicable Me prequel.

The hype was justified.

While some scenes may frighten very young children, hence its PG rating, I will stick my neck out and say with confidence that children who love the concept of minions will love this movie. Plain and simple.

With that market covered, I will turn my attention to why the older, potentially more cynical demographic should see this movie.

Firstly, because we can learn a lot from these little yellow creatures.

They appreciate life's simplicity, are unfailingly loyal and exist solely to make the lives of those around them better.

Their innocence is infectious and even their mostly-nonsensical language is endearing.

Secondly, because there are enough pop culture references to add a subtly intellectual element to the film, set in the late 1960s.

One involves a billboard for US President Richard Nixon and another involves a priceless scene with Queen Elizabeth II drinking from a pint glass in a London pub. Where else could you see that?

And thirdly, perhaps most importantly, because the film will make you feel like a child again.

Its plotline is simple, because it is essentially a children's film, but it is certainly not without twists.

After existing for thousands of years, but not yet having met their Despicable Me master Gru, the minions are living a lonely life without a master and therefore without purpose.

Brave leader Kevin and his support cast Stuart and Bob set out to find the minions a new villain to serve.

They are led to Scarlet Overkill, who sets them the task of stealing the crown jewels so she can become queen. Of course, things do not pan out as anticipated.

Minions has its laugh-out-loud moments and it has scenes designed to draw emotion.