Minions & Monsters is going to surprise many and be one of the delights of the year. The latest installment in the Minions franchise follows a new tribe of Minions looking for a leader. Minions & Monsters decides to take us back to the 1920’s as Hollywood is just coming up. This is of course, takes place 48 years prior to the Despicable Me franchise so the usual Minions we’re used to seeing aren’t here. In this new tribe we meet James and Henry who are on a mission to make a movie. This upsets their leader Minion who just wants to find a new evil boss. Minions & Monsters then decides to take the next 90 minutes to show love to cinema with a compelling story of creativity and friendship.

James and Henry are Minions that want something beyond just serving a big bad guy. The friendship they build throughout the film is sweet and endearing to see flourish. We also meet Ed; Ed is a new Minion that doesn’t speak but Henry and James manage to communicate with them through sign language. The inclusivity that Illumination provides throughout the film is incredible to see. I love that they are clear about their beliefs and portray them in a natural way. Illumination is known for their wonderful and vibrant worlds that they can create, and in Minions & Monsters they really step it up and give us some of their most dazzling sequences yet. A lot of the scenes you’ll see are clearly callbacks to old Hollywood but also more contemporary films; I mean, George Lucas even has his own cameo which was awesome to see. Minions & Monsters will hopefully work as a gateway film for many to access these classic films that shaped the world of cinema today.

It would have been easy to make this just a movie with a bunch of homages and cuts (I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing the Minions tackle on more movies). However, Minions & Monsters still manages to pack in the laughs, action, romance, and even the horror in under 2 hours. This is an incredible feat that showcases that Illumination really has become a powerhouse not only of animation, but stories as well.

Minions & Monsters has a lot of storylines going on at once but they do a great job at really blending them together. Dort’s and Debbie’s side story of love and perseverance from being ostracized from society was great to see. All of this happens while the Minions still keep the gags going that they are known for. It keeps the film light on its feet while also hitting all of its beats. There’s just something here for everyone to enjoy and come out with a huge smile on their face.

I really enjoyed my time with the film and just when I thought they’d done it all with Minions, I was wrong. Minions & Monsters is a clear indication that this franchise still has a lot left in it. It proves that the power of cinema and how it draws people together will continue for a very long time. If you’re thinking of watching this movie, do it on the biggest and loudest screen possible. It truly is the delight not only of the summer but the year in my opinion. Do not miss it!

STAY FOR THE AFTER CREDITS AS WELL!

Minions & Monsters will be in theaters July 1st.