Despicable Me

Walking in to Despicable Me, I was already filled with excitement. The film's advertising campaign heavily featured the minions and rightly so -- the yellow, capsule-like figures are too adorable for audiences to resist.

However, before watching the animated film, I was also worried that the film was overexposed and would fall short of expectations. There was ultimately no need for those worries.

The film is packed with flair and edge, both literally and figuratively. It follows supervillain Gru (Steve Carell) and his minion army. He attempts to reclaim the position as the biggest supervillain on earth as Vector (Jason Segel) threatens his position. Gru thus attempts to steal the moon.

There are plenty of twists along the way. Gru becomes dad to three adorable orphans, Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier), and Agnes (Elsie Fisher).

Energy is infused within the film. There are several action shots and scenes with Gru and Vector using different gadgets. Although the functionality of the gadgets is somewhat improbable, they are creatively designed and fun to look at.

Similar to the Pixar films, Despicable Me also has plenty of heart through the developing relationship between Gru and the children. Audiences of all ages will also be delighted with the abundance of cute moments, provided mostly by the minions and the three children.

There’s also plenty of humor. A nice balance between adult humor and children's humor is created.

The experience in 3D is also worthwhile as it enhances the experience. A roller coaster scene, when viewed in 3D, is spectacular -- it's as if you are on the roller coaster itself. The end credits are also innovative and interactive with the audience.

Overall, the film is edgier and quirkier than the Pixar films. However, similarly to them, Despicable Me will likely also cause a tear or two.