Abi Wegner — Staff Writer

The Minions are back on the big screen after being released on July 2, 2022. Many viewers enjoyed the film for its nostalgic feel. Set in 1976, the movie appeals to older and younger generations alike.

First appearing in Despicable Me (2010), the Minions have become increasingly popular and are known for their chaotic-but-loving nature. These abnormal yellow beings have become comfort characters to many viewers, especially those who grew up watching them in the original Despicable Me movies, which is why this movie caters to all age groups.

With some “punny” humor adults can appreciate, the overall plot of the movie for children, and an established, familiar feel of the characters for teens, Minions: the Rise of Gru quickly became one of the most successful animated movies of the year.

It is fun-loving, family friendly, and has just enough action to keep the viewers entertained. The pun-inspired names of the Vicious 6 were a nice touch that had even the adults laughing in the theaters. The film is continually fast-paced, potentially to distract from the seemingly corny jokes, while still letting you marinate in them enough for your enjoyment.

Minions: Rise of Gru grossed over 710 million dollars at the global box office. While still giving credit to its writer Matthew Fogel, a lot of the film’s success can be attributed to a viral TikTok trend. The “GentleMinions” trend circulated around TikTok and gained over 24 million views.

In this trend, groups of teenagers dressed up in suits and went to theaters to view the movie, clapping and cheering at the end of the film.

For many, participating in this trend simply enhanced the experience of watching the movie in the cinema. It was an act that bonded friends together, the same thing the Despicable Me franchise has done for years.

While intentions were good and the GentleMinions trend was created with humorous intentions, it got out of hand. Due to some groups’ lack of control and noise, theaters were often left dealing with the aftermath of large groups of adolescents. The theater’s noise was often too loud, not allowing the families and target audience of the movie to enjoy themselves.

This reached the point where some cinemas banned the sale of tickets of the Rise of Gru to adolescents wearing suits. Considering the movie’s success in hindsight of its ticket sales, it is easy to see the impact social media and the nostalgia of memes and trends had on the movie’s popularity.

Minions: Rise of Gru was a hilarious and light-hearted movie that all ages and groups of people could enjoy, a movie many recommend viewing, especially by those who watched the movie wearing suits and eating bananas. Perhaps the trend-setters on social media are onto something–movies are better enjoyed in an immersive experience, with friends alongside (a little satire humor never hurts, either).