Opened: July 9, 2010

Directed by: Pierre Coffin & Chris Renaud

Starring: Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russell Brand, Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, Elsie Fisher, Will Arnett, Kristen Wiig, Julie Andrews, Pierre Coffin, Chris Renaud, Jermaine Clement, Jack McBrayer, Danny McBride, Mindy Kaling, Rob Huebel, Ken Daurio & Ken Jeong

As the debut film of the company, Despicable Me proves Illumination Studios to be a major contender in the animated family films world.

Not to be upstaged by his villain competitor Vector (Jason Segel) who stole the Great Pyramid of Giza, Gru (Steve Carell) decides to steal the moon. Gru adopts three girls (Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier & Elsie Fisher) to infiltrate Vector’s home and obtain the shrink ray.

For better or for worse, this started the franchise that introduced us to the little, yellow Minions. They provide great comedy to an already funny film.

Unlike most kids’ films, the movie puts a super-villain at the forefront and humanizes him with the introduction of the girls to his life. He doesn’t stop doing bad things, but he has a love for something else.

Final say: Nothing despicable here. ★★★★☆