Universal Pictures has revealed that “Despicable Me 4” will be available for digital purchase on Tuesday, 6 August 2024. This announcement follows a remarkable theatrical run, where the film has amassed a staggering $752.2 million worldwide.
Helmed by Chris Renaud, “Despicable Me 4” continues the beloved series with Steve Carell returning as Gru. In this latest adventure, Gru, along with his family—including his mischievous son Gru Jr.—faces off against the villainous Maxime Le Mal, portrayed by Will Ferrell, and his partner, Valentina, voiced by Sofía Vergara.
Despite receiving mixed reviews, with a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 56%, the film has been a hit with audiences, boasting a much higher audience score of 88%.
The digital release will feature bonus content, including two Minion mini-movies: “Benny’s Birthday” and “Game Over and Over.” “Benny’s Birthday” follows Benny as he finds himself stuck in a time loop during a birthday celebration, while “Game Over and Over” captures the chaos that ensues when the Minions discover a game controller that lets them control one another.
Box Office Triumph and Financial Success
“Despicable Me 4” has surpassed financial expectations, with its production budget estimated at £100 million, making it the priciest film in the franchise to date. This investment has clearly paid off, as the film has earned £314 million domestically and £438.3 million internationally. Although the VOD release is approaching, the film continues to perform strongly in cinemas, indicating that its box office earnings may still rise.
The impressive box office performance underscores the franchise’s lasting appeal. Despite the mixed critical reception, the Despicable Me series remains a commercial powerhouse, demonstrating its enduring popularity with audiences.
Future Prospects for the Despicable Me Series
Looking ahead, the future of the Despicable Me franchise appears promising. A third Minions film has already been confirmed, slated for release in June 2027. However, a fifth Despicable Me film has yet to be officially announced. Given the success of “Despicable Me 4” and the franchise’s ongoing popularity, it is likely that additional sequels may be in development.
As the franchise evolves, maintaining its appeal will be crucial. The film’s strong box office results and favourable audience feedback suggest that the Despicable Me universe continues to captivate viewers, potentially ensuring its continued success in the future.
The upcoming VOD release of “Despicable Me 4” marks a new chapter following a highly successful cinema run. With impressive box office earnings and strong audience support, the franchise remains a dominant force in animated films. As attention turns to potential future projects, the evolution of the Despicable Me series will be closely watched. Balancing continued audience interest with industry trends will be key to the franchise’s future success.
