As a harried working mom who’s spent countless hours wrangling my unruly brood through endless summer activities, I can’t help but appreciate the subtle jabs at suburban life that “Despicable Me 4” throws in for the adults in the audience. It’s not just Gru’s desperate attempts to blend into his new neighborhood or the Minions’ penchant for chaos – there are little nods and winks throughout the film that speak directly to us weary parents.
In “Despicable Me 4,” Gru and his mischievous Minions are back for another vibrant, entertaining journey tailored for kids. The comedy film boasts the return of renowned voice actors Steve Carell from “The Office,” Kristen Wiig of “Saturday Night Live” fame, and Miranda Cosgrove, a star on Nickelodeon. Additionally, this installment welcomes new cast members including Will Ferrell, Sofia Vergara, Stephen Colbert, and Joey King. With such an impressive roster of comedic talents, parents may anticipate more engaging content just for them in this sequel compared to previous releases.
As a gamer and avid movie fan, I’d say this about “Despicable Me 4”: While some parts of this animated film left me with mixed feelings and I’ve included it in my top picks for the year, I realized that the content for adults is more nuanced than I initially thought. But fear not, as a dedicated viewer, I’m on a mission to uncover all the hidden jokes, intricate plot points, and thought-provoking themes that the filmmakers cleverly incorporated to keep us older audience members hooked.
The #GentleMinions are sporting suits and ties
In the new installment of “Despicable Me,” titled “Despicable Me 4,” the film pays homage to older viewers right from the start. The infamous Minions, played by Pierre Coffin, and their master, Felonious Gru, portrayed by Steve Carell, make an appearance. Following a cool car scene accompanied by Pharell’s catchy new tune “Double Life,” they reach the villain school, Lycée Pas Bon. The Minions then step out of their little vehicle wearing their usual overalls but swiftly change into formal suits and ties, along with sunglasses to round off their new sleek appearance.
In essence, the Minions’ altered costumes in the movie may seem like an accommodation for a black-tie event. However, it could also be interpreted as a nod to the popular TikTok trend #GentleMinions, where users dressed up in suits and sunglasses to watch “Minions: The Rise of Gru.” This viral sensation, filled with young people enjoying the film, led to some reports of theater bans on large formal wear groups due to potential disruptions.
Despite this, “Minions: The Rise of Gru” became a hit at the box office, similar to how “Despicable Me 4” has done so far. The devoted fanbase of the #GentleMinions likely played a role in both films’ widespread popularity.
Alums will cringe at the class reunion
Gru and his Minions attend Lycée Pas Bon (the “Not Good High School”) for a class reunion. At this event, Gru is compelled to disguise himself and apprehend Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell), an old rival. However, before they engage in a physical altercation, Maxime amuses the gathering by poking fun at Gru’s meager villainous achievements since graduating in the same year as him. He even manages to elicit laughter from the crowd by reminiscing about the time Gru momentarily pilfered the moon during “Despicable Me” (2010), only to lose it later.
For many viewers of “Despicable Me 4,” the film’s themes may resonate more with their parents than with them, as most young audience members have not yet reached high school graduation. However, it’s safe to assume that their parents have, and they might recall the awkwardness and posturing that can occur at class reunions. The movie captures this experience with uncanny accuracy, showing how alumni often compete over trivial past events. Thankfully for Gru, he won’t be subjected to this ritual humiliation for long and instead focuses on leading the Anti-Villain League against Maxime. And let’s be honest, there’s a part of every parent that wishes they could have confronted their high school bullies in front of the entire student body.
Not connecting with your children
In “Despicable Me 4,” some parents may relate all too well to the strained connection between Gru and his young son, Gru Jr. Despite the obvious affection the boy has for his mother, Lucy Wilde (Kristen Wiig), he shows disdain or aggression towards his father. As they wait in a carpool line, Gru Jr. even goes so far as to provoke Gru Sr. by popping balloons in the back seat of the car.
I hope none of you adults here are dealing with a misbehaved child like Gru Junior. It’s understandable if some parents feel disconnected from their kids, especially if they aren’t the biological parent. This is actually a common concern for parents who have recently adopted children, as depicted in “Despicable Me.”
Parents may acknowledge that “Despicable Me 4” doesn’t provide deep understanding into this relationship dynamic. However, only if one can fantasize about their newborn transforming into a cockroach and showing affection only when suspended from a skyscraper, might they find relevance. Otherwise, it’s reassuring to know that many parents share the same feelings.
Some classic Sugar Honey Iced Tea
In the beloved 2005 animated film “Madagascar,” one of the best-known examples of hidden adult humor is found when the zebra Marty (voiced by Chris Rock) shouts out “Sugar Honey Iced Tea!” in slow motion. Though many children may have deciphered the phrase’s true meaning since their initial viewing, animation studios continue to surprise adults with subtle, secretive references.
In the crudest joke found in “Despicable Me 4,” young Agnes attempts to demonstrate her new skills to the family goat, Lucky. She commands him to “sit,” but to her surprise and amusement, the goat responds by defecating on the floor. Agnes finds this hilarious and emphasizes that she had instructed the goat to “sit.” However, it seems that the goat may have misunderstood her and thought she said something like “Sugar Honey Iced Tea,” which could be a euphemism for a command to relieve itself. This joke is likely to be over the heads of younger viewers, but it might keep adults entertained during the movie’s 90-minute runtime.
No more milk
At the beginning of the movie, Gru is back at home with his family, leading a peaceful and law-abiding life. To demonstrate this change, he takes on the role of the family shopper. However, it seems this new task is proving to be challenging for him. When Lucy inquires if he picked up milk during his shopping trip, Gru rattles off various types of milk alternatives, before confessing that he’s unsure if they still sell regular milk.
A joke about running out of regular milk might not amuse toddlers who only know regular and chocolate milk. Moreover, the way the observation is presented – implying that alternative milks are pushing out the traditional one – makes it seem more suitable for an audience with a sensitivity towards certain generations or demographics.
How many Bahamas are there?!
In his role as a comedic actor, Steve Carell has demonstrated an impressive ability to make even the most trivial or crude jokes appealing and amusing. This talent continues to shine through as he effectively delivers a joke that might otherwise elicit groans and be lost on children.
When giving Gru Jr. one of those convenient applesauce pouches, which are popular among parents and budget-conscious college students, he mentions that they’re from “the Bahamas – all of them!” The humor in this statement eludes children, as there isn’t a collection of distinct “Bahamas” as Gru suggests. In reality, the Bahamas is an archipelago consisting of over 3,000 islands. Despite this, the term “the Bahamas” can grammatically function with both singular and plural verbs. For instance, one could say “the Bahamas are beautiful,” referring to the collective group of islands, or “the Bahamas is beautiful,” referring specifically to the country of the Bahamas.
Steve Carell and Will Ferrell are back together
In an exciting turn of events, “Despicable Me 4” brings together comedy legends Steve Carell and Will Ferrell for an unexpected reunion. This meta-casting is a delightful throwback to their iconic dynamic first showcased in the 2004 Adam McKay film “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.” In this classic comedy, Ferrell famously portrayed the charismatic weatherman Ron Burgundy, while Carell, on the brink of his breakthrough with “The Office,” played his quirky colleague Brick Tamland.
Carell and Ferrell collaborated in Nora Ephron’s “Bewitched” film adaptation and Woody Allen’s “Melinda and Melinda” following their initial partnership. Afterward, Carell focused on Dunder Mifflin while Ferrell and McKay continued to rule the comedy scene. When Carell was about to depart from NBC’s sitcom years later, Ferrell stepped in as his temporary successor to ease fan concerns. They teamed up once more before “Despicable Me 4” for “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues.” For children watching, Carell and Ferrell are the amusing voices behind their favorite animated characters. For adults, they’re esteemed comedians rejoining on screen.
Gru is too excited not to see his family
When the AVL helps the family go into hiding to prevent Maxime’s anger again, the kids worry they might not get to see their Grandma (Marlena Gru, portrayed by Julie Andrews in “Despicable Me 3”) and “Uncle Dru” Gru, the blonde twins voiced by Carell. These characters don’t show up in the film since Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan) explains that their safety measures must remain distinct from the Gru-Wilde clan. Hearing that he would be separated from his family by the military itself, Gru views this as a positive aspect of their protective setup.
Children watching the movie may find it confusing as to why Gru is so thrilled about this situation. Although Marlena and Dru have often acted as adversaries in the past series installments, most children’s stories emphasize the importance of loving and caring for family members unconditionally. Nevertheless, adults can relate to the notion that at times, it is essential to seek some distance from bothersome relatives.
Steve Carell is a salesman once more
Steve Carell can’t avoid being linked to Michael Scott, a role that made him famous and a beloved comedic actor. In “Despicable Me 3,” there’s a connection between the two worlds, as Gru’s birthday party was attended by people resembling former Dunder Mifflin employees. Kevin Malone (Brian Baumgartner), Dwight Schrute (Rainn Wilson), and Holly Flax (Amy Ryan) were among them, along with one who looked just like Erin Hannon (Ellie Kemper), carrying a disposable camera as she did in “The Office.”
In the upcoming animation film “Despicable Me 4,” there’s a subtle reference to the popular TV show “The Office.” Silas, a character in the movie, disguises Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) as a salesman while he’s hiding from authority. However, instead of selling paper like Michael Scott did, Gru is supposedly peddling solar panels. When Gru receives this new identity, he’s shown standing in front of a computer with a colorful logo screensaver – reminiscent of the iconic Dunder Mifflin logo seen in Season 4, Episode 5 (“Launch Party”) of “The Office.” This visual joke might be missed by many children and even some dedicated fans.
Gru is dressed for suburbia
In the wealthy community of Mayflower, Gru and his family undergo a significant identity transformation. While others only require new names, jobs or schools, for Gru, this involves a complete wardrobe overhaul. Known for his flamboyant clothing, this shift forces him to adopt a more conventional style. He proudly dons a pastel polo shirt with an unusual turtle emblem. Although children may not recognize the change, adults will likely appreciate the reference to classic preppy brands like Vineyard Vines, which now features a whale instead of its usual logo.
Simultaneously, they’ll share in Gru’s struggles to connect with grown-up friends by embracing the same quaint hobbies as their neighbors, the Prescotts. For instance, Gru fails to strike up a friendship with Perry (Stephen Colbert) through tennis. This scenario is reminiscent of the classic suburban assimilation dilemma portrayed in films and television for years, yet it remains an issue that continues to resonate as time passes.
X-ray goggles shouldn’t be given to Minions
The goat poop joke may be the most obviously crude humor in the film, but another potential contender exists – though its offensiveness hinges on whether or not the film unintentionally included a Minions visual gag in a suggestive manner.
When Gru and his family are transported to the Mayflower, I watch in amusement as the Minions are handed over to the AVL. In their new surroundings, they’re given free rein to wreak havoc on an entirely new scale. Amidst all the chaos, one Minion manages to snatch some X-ray goggles and puts them to good use. Peering through the lenses, they scan their surroundings, revealing mostly Minion skeletons. But their gaze lingers on a fellow Minion with a banana conspicuously placed in an area that’s bound to raise eyebrows among adults. It’s an innocuous sight gag, but for those of us with a naughty sense of humor, it’s hard not to see the phallic symbolism and chuckle at the Minions’ latest antic.
Illumination might attempt to keep a low profile by interpreting the symbol as a Minion having consumed a banana lately, which is true since they enjoy bananas. Nevertheless, it would have been wiser to position it a bit deeper within them to prevent potential misunderstandings about their anatomy.
Poppy Prescott plays Dance Dance Revolution
As I wander around in my nightshirt with a telltale monogram, regretting my decision to leave the peace of turtle-watching behind (Gru, why oh why?), I’m unexpectedly confronted by Poppy Prescott, the bright and ambitious daughter of Perry. With dreams of villainy in her heart, she recognizes me all too easily as the infamous criminal mastermind I’ve hidden myself to be – and even more alarmingly, as a former student of her cherished Lycée Pas Bon institution.
When she later draws Gru into a heist, we rendezvous at Poppy’s treehouse. To my delight, she has set up a “Dance Dance Revolution” system there for her and her feline companion to enjoy. Most kids today prefer “Just Dance,” but young fans might not know this is an amusing inside joke about Joey King, the actress who portrays Poppy in “The Kissing Booth.” In those movies, her character is fanatically addicted to “DDR.”
There’s a reference to Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man 2
For those of you who might feel a bit outdated, most children today probably recognize Spider-Man as Miles Morales from the hit “Spider-Verse” series. On the other hand, “Despicable Me 4” manages to remain fresh among kids by incorporating superhero themes through its Mega Minions storyline. However, one of the movie’s comic book references is specifically aimed at an older audience – those who have watched Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man 2,” a film that has reached the age to vote and drink in many countries.
In an unfortunate turn of events while trying to help, one Mega Minion employs its elastic abilities to halt a speeding train from causing destruction. The animation team pays tribute to the classic train rescue-fight scene from “Spider-Man 2,” where Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man utilizes his webbing in a similar manner using his extendable arms. However, considering the vast popularity and reach of “Spider-Man 2” among various generations of viewers, it seems unlikely that many in the intended audience for “Despicable Me 4” would be well-versed enough in the homage to fully appreciate it.
Lucy met the two-drink minimum
After watching “Despicable Me 4,” the final scene before adults left the theater likely influenced their actions in an significant way. During a break from Perry and Gru’s epic tennis match, Lucy found herself in an uncomfortable lunch situation with Patsy Prescott (Chloe Fineman), Perry’s wife. The meal came to an abrupt end due to Maxime’s interruption. In response, Lucy not only finished her own drink but also drank the rest of Patsy’s.
Despite keeping a low key demeanor, it was clear that Lucy and Patsy were relishing their cocktails, possibly strong ones, given Lucy’s expression following her second drink. After enduring an hour and a half of Minion shenanigans and frenetic animation, most parents in the audience couldn’t help but harbor envy towards Lucy at that moment. Even if there were mature themes and humor interspersed, the journey home probably left them yearning for a glass of wine to mark another triumphant day spent with their children during summer.
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2024-07-15 17:01