This second Minions movie, while focused on the minions, is also more of a prequel to the Despicable Me movies. While there is really not much depth to this movie, it is delightfully humourous, full of the Minion silliness that kids love. Set in 1976 it is sure to amuse adults familiar with the music and pop culture of the era. We meet young Gru as a kid of 11, focused on his pursuit to become a villian with his favourite criminal group, the “Vicious 6”. The movie is full of slapstick violence and cartoon peril but younger kids still may find some scenes too intense. While this series of movies is focused on villainy, there are many great conversation opportunities.

Which of the characters did you like best?

What feelings did you experience in this movie?

Despite them being an infamous criminal group, Gru is a typical kid with heroes he looks up to. Who are some of the people or ‘heroes’ you look up to? Why?

When Gru shares what he wants to be when he grows up with his class, everyone laughs at him. How do you think that made him feel? Have you ever been laughed at for something you said? How did it make you feel?

What do you what to be when you grow up? What do you need to do to become that person?

When Gru is invited to apply for an open position with his heroes, they are surprised to discover he is a kid when he shows up and laughs at him, telling him he is too young. Has anyone ever said you can’t do something because you are kid? How did it make you feel?

This movie is all about being a villian and Gru learns ways to be a better criminal from Wild Knuckles. What do you think about this theme for a movie?

I wonder what questions you have after watching this movie?

Other themes to discuss: betrayal, loyalty, teamwork, friendship.