Another late addition to my Summer Movie list, but boy am I glad I added it. Without overselling it, let me say that Despicable Me could be one of the best movies I've seen yet this summer, animated or otherwise.
Steve Carell voices Gru, a super-villain with a plan to get back in the big leagues after being upstaged by a young wannabe villain. In order to accomplish this plan, however, he takes in three young girls, who then proceed to turn his life and his goals upside down.
Despicable Me is one of those rare movies that walks that fine line of being sweet but not too sweet, and does so beautifully. Gru's relationship with the girls, however unusual, feels real and unforced. The mix of humor, action and heart blends nicely together.
The voice work is great here. Carell gives Gru an Eastern-European-esque accent that brings to mind Dr. Strangelove. Jason Segel, Miranda Cosgrove, Will Arnett and even Julie Andrews are all here as well. The one that really impressed me was Russel Brand, playing an elderly scientist who works with Gru. The comedian demonstrates some range here; for those only familiar with Aldous Snow, you'll be surprised by what he pulls off.
The 3D is made good use of here, especially during the end credits, and there's great music as well. And the minions...oh my God, the minions. So adorable and so hilarious, speaking a made up language that is surprisingly understandable.
My Verdict: A great surprise for a summer movie, and one that will likely join Toy Story 3 in the Best Animated Feature category next Oscars.
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