Minions: The Rise of Gru is messy. Its script is a collection of subplots. It's not even clear who's the main protagonist since Gru doesn't meaningfully arc and is absent for extended sequences. Instead, several threads get excessive attention, which is cluttered and unnecessary. So much so that the film itself feels superfluous (this is worsened by a lazy MacGuffin being the primary motivation). Plus, there isn't a standout performance. Carrell doesn't have the same energy as he did in the original, and the rest of the cast is hardly special. Collectively, this gives The Rise of Gru an emotional shallowness that's difficult to overcome.
Meanwhile, The Rise of Gru is salvaged by its solid craft. There's cinematic lighting, motion, POVs, foreground, and overheads. The editing employs match cuts, jump cuts, passing cuts, fades, varying speeds, and surreal transitions. Plus, there are symbolic sounds, funky songs, and distinct 70s designs. Also, the CGI is fairly detailed and the cast is well-known (even if they're underutilized). Lastly, while the film isn't dramatically cohesive, its style displays consistent flair. Overall, The Rise of Gru has subpar emotions, but competent filmmaking. It won't be remembered, but fans of the franchise will find The Rise of Gru's competency passable.
Writing: 3/10
Direction: 6/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 5/10
Editing: 7/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 6.5/10
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