Lisa Johnson Mandell’s Minions: The Rise of Gru review says that this origin story set in the ’70’s has something for everyone of every age.

How can anyone not love the Minions? With the exception of one tightly wound acquaintance who watched the trailer for Minions: The Rise of Gru and dismissed it for being too violent, I think they’re universally funny. After all, since they don’t speak much English, their myriad site gags translate well. Who can help but giggle at the antics of Kevin, Stewart, Bob and co.? Those three are the greatest comedic trio since the Three Stooges. And they’re squishier!

The latest installation in the franchise goes back to the ’70’s, when Gru (Steve Carell) was a boy dreaming of one day being ranked among the greatest super villains of all time. When he hears there’s an opening among the evil doer chart toppers the “Vicious Six,” he finagles his way into an audition, and all hell breaks loose.

Meanwhile, we find out how Gru hooks up with the Minions in the first place, and how he became their “Mini Boss.” I don’t know about you, but I’ve always wondered how that happened. There’s still room for a pre-prequel about where the Minions came from before all this. But Minions: The Rise of Gru is packed enough as it is.

For the kids, there are the rapid fire cartoon antics of Minions and the super villains. For parents—make that grandparents, since the film is set in the ’70s, there are hilarious period references and wisecracks that will keep you laughing for days.

Really, how can you not giggle at an afro coiffed group leader named ‘Belle Bottom,’ (Taraji P. Henson), a lobster clawed brute called “Jean  Clawed,” (Jean-Claude Van Damme) or a Norse roller rink bruiser who goes by “Svengeance” (Dolph Lundgren)?

And that’s just the beginning. Michelle Yeoh as an acupuncturist/martial arts master trying to teach the minions the ways of the warrior is priceless. And the mostly ’70’s soundtrack is also good for a thrill.

Minions: The Rise of Gru is the perfect way to celebrate the 4th of July weekend with the kiddos, or with an equally goofy adult companion. It’s just may be the silliest, and most enjoyable, hour-and-a-half you’ll spend together.

Rated PG

1 Hour, 27 Minutes

Lisa Johnson Mandell’s Minions: The Rise of Gru review says that this origin story set in the ’70’s has something for everyone of every age.

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