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Despicable Me 3

16 June 2017English1h 30mPart 3 of the Despicable Me series
AdventureAnimationComedyFamily
out of 10
Mixedlukewarm or divided
Monk Score · 8 scored reviews · 1 not rated

Gru's twin gimmick gets laughs, but the franchise feels creatively spent.

Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.

  • Praised: entertaining Gru-centered comedic energy
  • Criticised: weaker than previous franchise entries

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Critic consensus

What 9 critics are saying

Critical reception for Despicable Me 3 leans mildly positive, with most reviewers finding it an entertaining, if undemanding, watch. The film's animation quality, fast pacing, and the comedic dynamic between Gru and his new twin brother Dru drew the most consistent appreciation, with several critics noting genuine laughs and a feel-good energy. However, a recurring criticism is that the film fails to match the warmth or ambition of its predecessors, with underdeveloped secondary characters, weak visual gags, and a sense that the franchise has plateaued creatively. A few reviewers flagged it as better suited to young children than general audiences.

How the 8 scores spread

1 not-rated review isn't plotted

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10

AI-generated summary of 9 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (9)

Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated

  1. Top critic

    Firstpost

    Film review ·

    Much like the Ice Age movies, the Despicable Me franchise will last a dozen more sequels, but unlike the case in those films there is some real effort being put into making these films entertaining. It's been eight long years since the first movie, but Gru and his Minions haven't aged a bit. On the down side the secondary characters, like Gru's children don't have a lot to do in the main story and you wish they grew up over the years. The sub plot with Lucy trying to become the kids' adopted mother may strike a chord with people in a similar situation, but it's an unwelcome distraction from the relentless fun between Gru and Dru.

  2. Top critic

    IBNLive

    Film review ·

    ...the laughs are aplenty, including cheeky nods to "Finding Nemo", "Star Wars", and a "Pink Panther"-inspired closing credits sequence. The secret sauce of the film remains grumpy Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) and his permanent state of impatience and irritation, which powers the franchise.

  3. Top critic

    Indian Express

    Film review ·

    The film relies on humour and poor visual gags to fill the gaps. And when these run up short, the fact that Despicable Me is essentially on the same page since the first film is more and more obvious. It's hard to see what Despicable Me 3 is getting at.

  4. Hindustan Times

    Film review ·

    Have we seen better animated films? Without a doubt, yes. Have we seen a better film in the same franchise? Definitely. But that doesn't take away from the fact that this too is 1.5 hours of silly fun with a filling of marshmallowy niceness.

  5. Rediff

    Film review ·

    Just like those fun, fast and furious re-runs Bratt never gets tired of, it's easy to warm up to the feel-good fervour of Gru and his ever expanding family every single time.

  6. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    Though lacking the warmth of the original, if you don't mind too many Grus, guns, bubblegums and robots, this colourful, cutesy film can be a fun one time watch.

  7. Deccan Chronicle

    Film review ·

    The film is enjoyable, but forgettable; amusing, but not profound. In a scene where Gru and Dru arrive outside Bratt's island tower, Gru takes charge while ordering Dru to sit and wait for him. The latter objects to being a silent spectator to all the fun and defies his brother's orders. But this is exactly what is expected of the audience – sit through the film and enjoy the madness of these cartoons.

  8. Mid-Day

    Film review ·

    The animation is the standard bearing distinctive. And the pacing is break-neck so you just have to hold on tight and sit upright for the exciting and reasonably thrilling joyride. This film may not measure up to the first two issues on most fronts but as a standalone it's still affective and rousing!

  9. Bollywood Life

    Film review ·

    Yes, the humour may not match up to your expectations and it may seem a little too preachy. But if you are in the company of a young kiddo, you wouldn't have much problem with it. It's totally meant for kids.

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