Monsters and movie stars collide in the Minions’ latest escapade, aptly titled “Minions & Monsters.” This new installment sees the beloved yellow characters, voiced by Pierre Coffin, take center stage in a narrative that caters to cinephiles and casual viewers alike.
The story kicks off with a lengthy framing device, transporting the Minions to Hollywood during the 1920s, where they find themselves as silent film stars under the guidance of a pint-sized director named Max, voiced by Christoph Waltz. However, their careers hit a snag with the arrival of sound films, as audiences struggle to comprehend their unique language. While most of the Minions set off in search of a new supervillain to serve, three of them—James, Henry, and Ed—decide to seek financing for their own science-fiction monster movie.
This foray into early Tinseltown brims with references to classic cinema. A standout moment occurs when the Minions disrupt Max’s train heist film, serving as a playful homage to Buster Keaton’s “The General,” complete with chaotic chases involving Keystone Kops. Throughout their misadventures, they wreak havoc on animated versions of iconic figures like Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd, and later their sound film attempts nod to classics such as “The Maltese Falcon” and “Citizen Kane.”
However, the film’s narrative takes a dip when it diverges into a subplot involving an alien robot named Dort, voiced by Jesse Eisenberg, who claims to have come to Earth with the intent to annihilate humanity. While there is a hint of humor in questioning his true identity—whether he is indeed a menacing alien or merely an overzealous street performer—the storyline lacks vibrancy until it reconnects with the main plot. This main thread features James, Henry, and Ed using a spellbook to summon a diminutive green tentacled creature, voiced by Trey Parker of “South Park” fame. Initially disappointed by the creature’s size, the group is promised bigger and scarier companions, though Henry is wary of their new ally, aptly named “Gary the Deceiver.”
As expected from a Universal Studios production, elements of corporate synergy appear, notably when the Minions briefly serve a cyclops reminiscent of a character from the upcoming “The Odyssey.” The present-day framing narrative includes a tour guide, voiced by Allison Janney, who introduces visitors to a movie memorabilia exhibit featuring a cameo from George Lucas, who humorously voices himself as a captive in a glass enclosure.
Despite the occasional dips in plot, “Minions & Monsters” successfully pays tribute to the silent film era, showcasing the Minions’ roots in classic comedy. Their clever nods to these early cinematic works stand out as more engaging than the references found in many contemporary reboots. For parents of young film enthusiasts, this movie serves as an excellent gateway to introduce children to the timeless humor of early comedians whose century-old jokes remain entertaining today.
Minions & Monsters
Voices by Pierre Coffin and Trey Parker. Directed by Pierre Coffin. Written by Brian Lynch and Pierre Coffin. Rated PG.
