So you want to watch the Despicable Me movies? Excellent choice! This guide provides the definitive answer on how to navigate the franchise, ensuring you experience the chaotic charm of Gru and his Minions in the best possible order and format.
Understanding the Despicable Me Universe: More Than Just Movies
The Despicable Me franchise, encompassing feature films, spin-offs, and short films, tells the story of Gru, a supervillain turned loving father. While the core narrative centers on Gru, his daughters (Margo, Edith, and Agnes), and his loyal Minions, understanding the timeline and the inclusion of spin-offs is crucial for a fulfilling viewing experience. Beyond simply watching, you might also want to consider availability of content in your region, and access to bonus features.
The Optimal Viewing Order: Chronological vs. Release
There are two primary approaches to watching the Despicable Me movies: chronological order based on the in-universe timeline and release order, which follows the order in which the films were released in theaters. While both methods have their merits, we strongly recommend release order for first-time viewers. Release order best preserves the surprises and character developments intended by the filmmakers.
Here’s the recommended release order, followed by a brief explanation of the chronological approach:
- Despicable Me (2010): The origin story. Meet Gru, his Minions, and the girls.
- Despicable Me 2 (2013): Gru falls in love and joins the Anti-Villain League.
- Minions (2015): A prequel exploring the Minions’ origins and their quest to find a supervillain to serve.
- Despicable Me 3 (2017): Gru discovers he has a twin brother and faces a new villain obsessed with the 1980s.
- Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022): Another prequel focusing on Gru’s childhood and his aspirations to become a supervillain, alongside his newly acquired Minions.
- Despicable Me 4 (2024): Gru navigates fatherhood with a new baby and a relentless new nemesis.
Why Release Order is Preferred
Starting with Despicable Me allows you to understand Gru’s initial motivations and witness his heartwarming transformation before delving into the Minions’ pre-Gru adventures. Watching Minions after Despicable Me 2 feels more natural, as you already have a strong understanding of the Minions’ personality and their relationship with Gru.
Chronological Order (For a Different Perspective)
For those who prefer a strict chronological approach, the order would be:
- Minions (2015)
- Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)
- Despicable Me (2010)
- Despicable Me 2 (2013)
- Despicable Me 3 (2017)
- Despicable Me 4 (2024)
While this order provides a linear timeline, it can diminish the impact of certain reveals in the later Despicable Me films, particularly Gru’s character arc. However, it can offer a fresh perspective on rewatches.
Where to Watch: Streaming, Renting, and Purchasing
The availability of Despicable Me movies varies depending on your region and the specific streaming services you subscribe to. Generally, you can find them through the following avenues:
- Streaming Services: Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, and others occasionally offer the Despicable Me movies as part of their streaming libraries. Check your local listings.
- Video-on-Demand (VOD) Platforms: You can rent or purchase the films through platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV, and Vudu.
- Physical Media: For collectors and those who prefer owning physical copies, DVDs and Blu-rays are readily available for purchase.
Checking for Special Features
Whether you choose streaming, renting, or purchasing, look for versions that include bonus features such as deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with the cast and crew. These additions provide valuable insights into the making of the films and enhance the overall viewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some frequently asked questions to provide a more complete understanding of how to watch the Despicable Me films:
1. Do I need to watch the short films?
While not essential to the main storyline, the short films (like Orientation Day, Home Makeover, and Puppy) offer amusing vignettes that further flesh out the characters and the Despicable Me universe. They’re generally only a few minutes long and easily accessible on YouTube or with purchased copies of the movies, making them a worthwhile addition to your viewing experience. Consider them as delightful side dishes to the main course.
2. Is Minions essential to understanding the main Despicable Me storyline?
Minions provides context to the Minions’ origins and their loyalty to Gru. While you can enjoy the Despicable Me movies without seeing Minions, watching it adds depth to their character and your appreciation for their chaotic antics. It’s highly recommended, especially before Minions: The Rise of Gru.
3. What age range is the Despicable Me series appropriate for?
The Despicable Me movies are generally considered family-friendly and appropriate for a wide age range. They typically receive PG ratings, meaning some material may not be suitable for very young children. Parental guidance is advised.
4. Where can I find the short films associated with the franchise?
The short films are often included as bonus features on the DVD and Blu-ray releases of the Despicable Me movies. You can also find them on YouTube and other online video platforms. Search for titles like “Despicable Me short films” or the specific name of the short you’re looking for.
5. Are there any post-credit scenes in the Despicable Me movies?
Yes, some of the Despicable Me movies feature post-credit scenes, often humorous and lighthearted. It’s worth sticking around until the very end of the credits to catch these extra moments.
6. Will understanding the 1980s make Despicable Me 3 more enjoyable?
While not strictly necessary, knowledge of 1980s culture, music, and fashion will certainly enhance your enjoyment of Despicable Me 3, as the villain, Balthazar Bratt, is obsessed with the decade. His character and motivations are heavily rooted in 80s nostalgia.
7. Is there a specific platform that has all the movies?
Availability varies by region and streaming service licensing agreements. No single platform consistently hosts all the Despicable Me movies at all times. Check your local streaming services and VOD platforms for current availability.
8. Is it important to watch the movies in 4K Ultra HD?
While not crucial, watching in 4K Ultra HD (if available and your equipment supports it) will undoubtedly enhance the visual experience. The vibrant animation and detailed backgrounds will look sharper and more immersive.
9. Are there any significant differences between the theatrical and home video releases?
Generally, the theatrical and home video releases are very similar. However, home video releases often include bonus features, such as deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, and commentary tracks, which add to the viewing experience.
10. How often do the Despicable Me movies appear on streaming services?
The availability of the Despicable Me movies on streaming services fluctuates depending on licensing agreements between Universal Pictures and the streaming platforms. Keep an eye on announcements from your favorite streaming services regarding upcoming movie additions.
11. Is there a particular order I should watch the Minions shorts in relation to the main movies?
The Minions shorts are generally standalone and don’t have a specific placement in the overall timeline. They can be enjoyed at any point after watching the first Despicable Me movie.
12. Will there be any further Despicable Me spin-offs beyond the Minions franchise?
While future spin-offs haven’t been officially announced, the success of the Minions franchise suggests the possibility of further exploration of the Despicable Me universe. Keep an eye on entertainment news for any future announcements. The popularity of individual characters or storylines could lead to new projects.