Despicable Me (2010)

Staunton praises the film as a wonderfully inventive animated comedy. He singles out its ingenious gadgetry and Gru’s softening bond with the orphan sisters.

Abrams finds the film an enjoyable, unambitious diversion, with its predictable plot proving no major obstacle. He praises the filmmakers’ comic timing and inventive use of space in the animated world.

The critic finds the film funny, clever and warmly animated, though less surprising than Pixar at its best. He especially praises Steve Carell’s performance as Gru, which conveys vulnerability beneath the villain’s bluster.

Newman finds the film fun and smart, though not a first-rank CGI cartoon. He singles out the appealing orphans and the warmth and poignancy of Gru’s transformation into a parent.

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The three-star review offers a measured assessment of the film. It points to cartoon villains’ greater appeal than their heroic adversaries as a source of fun.

Smith finds the film entertaining but derivative, with a clunky, overly sentimental story. He praises the comic set pieces, especially the minions and the film’s gadgetry.

Bradshaw finds the comedy agreeable but unoriginal and less impressive than its American reception suggests. He singles out the contrast between Gru and more interesting animated villains as a weakness.

Turan finds the film exhausting and overly sentimental, with too much forced cleverness. He praises the amusing minions as its most charming feature, while criticizing the cloying orphans and irritating villain.

The critic calls it an excellent, highly entertaining animated film that succeeds for both children and adults. They especially praise the Minions’ comic appeal and the film’s inventive use of 3D.

Bitel finds the film highly entertaining, with its family themes made funnier rather than solemn. He singles out the mischievous minions as scene-stealing highlights.

The critic calls the film a triumph and a strong new competitor in animated family entertainment, despite its derivative story and mawkish moments. The minions earn particular praise for their laughs, distinct personalities and entertaining end-credits sequence.

Anderton finds the film charming, funny, and heartfelt, though not quite up to Pixar’s standard. He praises its voice cast, animation, and the warmth of Gru’s relationships with the girls.

The critic finds the film neither bad nor good, faulting it for being dull and lacking depth. They praise the Minions’ comic moments and Steve Carell’s lively lead performance.