‘Despicable Me 4’ Director Draws Inspiration From ‘Fantastic Four’ for New Mega Minions

Minions receive a makeover in ‘Despicable Me 4’! While the franchise chronicles Gru’s transformation from a villain to a member of the Anti-Villain League, the Minions remain its heart. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, the film’s director discussed enhancing these iconic yellow characters, drawing inspiration from the ‘Fantastic Four’.

‘Despicable Me’ is cherished by fans worldwide, and as preparations for the fourth instalment began, co-directors Chris Renaud and Patrick Delage aimed to raise the stakes. Introduced in this sequel are mega Minions—Minions endowed with superhero abilities, inspired by the ‘Fantastic Four.’

Also Read: ‘Despicable Me 4’ Review: We Don’t Need Another Movie

According to Renaud, the powers from the superhero franchise, such as invisibility, fire manipulation, and rock-like strength, were uniquely suited to the Minions’ playful and comedic nature. “The Invisible Woman, the fire guy, the rock guy—there’s something inherently goofy about those powers that fit perfectly with the Minions,” Renaud explained to Entertainment Weekly.

Each mega Minion’s power was tailored to their individual characteristics. Tim, the tall Minion, gained stretching abilities, while Mel, distinguished by one goggle, can shoot laser beams, reflecting their distinctive traits and physicality.

‘Despicable Me 4’ expands the storyline as Gru (voiced by Steve Carell), along with his wife Lucy (Kristen Wiig), their daughters, and new addition Gru Jr., faces a new threat from Maxime Le Mal. As tensions escalate, the Minions, now equipped with superpowers under the Anti-Villain League, must rise to the challenge alongside their allies.

Discover the action-packed adventure in ‘Despicable Me 4’, currently showing in theatres, to see if Gru and his team can triumph over adversity once more.

–Farheen Ali