Despicable Me 2 (8/10)

Directors: Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud              

                Despicable Me 2 isn't quite as good as the first, but should satisfy fans expectations. Most of what worked in the original is continued here. Gru is still lovable and snarky as the reformed villain. While Gru is the star, the minions have always been seen as the highlight for many. They’re heavily featured here and are their usual hilarious selves. The minions are getting their own spinoff movie in 2014.

                The voice acting is great throughout. Steve Carell still has great delivery as Gru. Russell Brand also returns as Dr. Nefario, one of my favorite characters from the first film. He doesn't have as much screentime in this one, but he’s still important to the plot.

                A newcomer to the series, Kristen Wiig is pretty decent as Lucy, a secret agent in the Anti-Villain League that Gru falls for. Benjamin Bratt also joins the franchise as the villain, El Macho. Some have criticized the character for being a Hispanic stereotype. The film may be guilty of using some stereotypes, but it isn't mean spirited. The character of El Macho was supposed to be voiced by Al Pacino, but he left due to creative differences.

                Pierre Coffin and Renaud return as directors. They also do the various voices of the minions.

                Despicable Me 2 was number one for its first two weekends. Pacific Rim and Grown Ups 2 lost to the animated film on their opening weekend. It only fell to number 2 on the weekend of the 19^th -21^st. It has made almost $600 million worldwide. It is currently the fourth top grossing film of 2013.

RATING: 8/10