A Minnow Madness

Last weekend my family and I went to see Despicable Me 3 . There were two Despicable Me films as well as 2015's Minions. To put things in perspective, I thoroughly enjoyed the first movie in the series. It was a well written story with humor, action and heart. The animation was excellent and the Minions reminded me of a plethora of mini, gibberish-speaking three stooges. I recall thinking the second movie was decent but not memorable. My kids loved the slapstick and nonsensical humor of Minions

Most parents I know do enjoy 80s references... when they are clever and fit the plot. We aren't idiots. We can tell when something is being formulaicly added in order to score with a focus group. While The Boss Baby seamlessly and cleverly wove these nostalgic "Easter eggs" into the plot, Despicable Me 3 forces them down our throats in the most boring and passe ways. For example, at one point the villain exclaims, "Son of a Betamax!" He also uses a Rubiks cube as a weapon and wears parachute pants. Yawn.

Totally tubular! The villain has a mullet, 80s clothes, and an 80s robot! I am in my forties... focus groups say I love this stuff! Quick add more! What about 80s music, instruments, Rubiks cubes and shoes? More! More! More! You haven't completely beaten me over the head with the fact that the 80s are nostalgic and funny! How about 80s dances? They have to fit here somewhere. They don't fit? Who cares? Put them in anyway! Parents loves this!

If your kids want to see this movie, save yourself some money and rent Despicable Me or Minions. Watching either of those for the tenth time still has to be better than the time, effort and money required to see Despicable Me 3.

Watch Offical Trailer