NMR: Despicable Me

In some ways it is a shame that Toy Story 3 was so good this past year because it overshadowed some other good animated films. First you had How To Train Your Dragon tell an effective story and be entertaining and now we have Despicable Me, another excellent entry that works for kids and adults alike. What I liked about this film is that it wasn't afraid to be cartoony. Many of the well received animated films have tried to be more realistic, but not here. A lot of the humor in this film harkens back to jokes that you would find in a Road Runner/Wylie Coyote cartoon. And while the comedy is silly, it's not so hyperactive or noisy like so many of today's Saturday morning cartoons are, that it gives you a headache. But while the file has plenty of goofy fun, it's also able to root itself with heart thanks to a trio of orphaned girls. These kids are sweet without being cloying. It's easy to see how they are able to melt the cold heart of evil villain Gru (voiced wonderfully by Steve Carell). The film works for audiences of all ages. Adults will enjoy the voice work from a lot of their favorite comedians. Children will love the battle between Gru and Vector (voiced by Jason Segal) and everyone will love Gru's goofy minions, who steal the show with every scene that they are in. This one is definitely recommended for rental. Rating: ****