"It is refreshing to see a film that focuses on the villain and not on a hero who predictably saves the world"

I hadn't heard much about Despicable Me before I had the opportunity to go to the screening. I had seen trailers and photos for the film but what I had seen, really doesn't do the film justice.

Meet Gru (Steve Carell) a super villain who has a huge, creepy looking, villainous house. He also has a huge vehicle (I say vehicle because it's not really a car, it's a jet powered tank, but even that description doesn't quite explain it). Gru lives in a world where super villains are common place.

It is refreshing to see a film that focuses on the villain and not on a hero who predictably saves the world. Gru sets out to pull off an outrageous heist but with no backing from the 'Bank of Evil' he and his minions raise the money needed to do the job. The struggles Gru faces from his villainous counterparts, is the age old tale of belonging and acceptance. It's told, not only through Gru's flashbacks, but also through the eyes of three orphaned sisters that Gru adopts.

Despicable Me is a thoughtful and beautifully animated story. It shows that everyone, at some point throughout their lives, seek approval. The voice cast is brilliant, Steve Carell is the perfect fit for Gru. Likewise, Russell Brand as the senile Dr. Nefario and has some of the funniest moments in the film. 

Technology wise, the animation is gorgeous, bright and nicely rendered with a deft touch of simplicity to it, causing it to be not too overly glossy and polished. This makes the animation look less artificial and more fluid, and this especially shows when it comes to the practical jokes. The music score is just wonderful and suits the moods of the film as they come along.

Despicable Me is for the whole family. I didn't look at my watch once, it's packed full of action, and with genuine heart it will make you laugh and cry at the same time.