His underground lair is now used for his latest scheme, making jam, under the watchful eye of resident mad scientist Dr Nefario (Brand), and the goggled-eyed Minions.
The jam-making goes on hold when Gru is pulled back into the super-villain game by the Anti-Villain League, which asks for his help to identify another evil villain threatening to take over the world.
Although Gru is unhappy working for the good guys, he does get to work with new AVL recruit Lucy (Kristen Wiig), who is overly enthusiastic, ungainly, feminine, and deadly, and Wiig's voicing of Lucy captures her positive spirit perfectly.
Gru is smitten and, like Carell's 40-Year-Old Virgin, has little idea what he should do about it. Worse, Gru isn't the only one with romantic feelings; he must deal with his eldest daughter Margo's (Miranda Cosgrove) first crush. Not that there's much time for dating when there's an evil mastermind to uncover.
And thank goodness for the miming, giggling, party-loving Minions and their give-anything-a-go attitude.
Among the mix of family dramas, and evil action-packed shenanigans, it's still the Minions who are the most memorable and deliver the most laughs.
Stars: 3.5/5
Cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Russell Brand
Director: Pierre Coffin, Chris Renaud
Running time: 98 mins
Rating: PG
Verdict: Less despicable, but a wacky, colourful, solid sequel.
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- TimeOut
