This is a fun movie, don't get me wrong, I just wish it was a slightly better movie. The CG battle sequences are really enjoyable. Unlike Man of Steel or the Transformers movies, Guillermo del Toro is good at adding little flourishes here and there to set a more realistic tone through extended CG sequences. There's more CG dirt, dust, and water in this film than any other I've seen, which can help sell a CG shot by hiding the seams, so to speak, and help it look more realistic. At one point a robot almost falls off of a pier prompting some birds to casually fly away. I appreciate a real-life moment in the midst of an outrageous summer blockbuster CG battle to help remind us we're human. Unfortunately, the movie's characters and the acting were nowhere near as good as the production design and effects. The film feels like half a movie as a result. I did enjoy Charlie Day and Ron Perlman's characters for some comedy relief.

3 Stars (out of 5)

I really like the characters from this universe but for some reason I find myself bored while watching these films. The filmmakers know the minions are the moneymakers so half of the screen-time is spent on them. The other half is spent on Gru's mission to save the world... in a shopping mall (how exciting). Which leaves pretty much no time for the children. The youngest, Agnes has a cute birthday party scene in the beginning (my favorite bit) and Margo has a thin sub-plot about starting to like boys, but it's not properly concluded. Poor Edith's entire sub-plot is that she likes to practice karate moves. I guess that will come into play in a future sequel? I laughed at a few things Dr. Nefario said, played by Russell Brand, but most of the humor is aimed only at children. I've been spoiled by Pixar's ability to please young and old alike.

2.5 Stars (out of 5)