Tag: Despicable Me 4

Experience the Musical Magic of “Despicable Me 4,” Now Playing in Cinemas

Whether it’s a catchy upbeat tune like “Happy” or a positively mellow song like “Just A Cloud Away,” the “Despicable Me” franchise has produced some of the most beloved music for animated films. The musical themes for the different characters are just as memorable because, in the world of “Despicable Me 4,” the music plays a vital role in interweaving the narrative with equal parts mischief and heart.

The Genius Behind the Music: Heitor Pereira

Grammy Award-winning composer Heitor Pereira, the creative force behind the “Despicable Me” films’ iconic musical scores, adopts a character-centric approach to his compositions. “Believe it or not, I wait until every new character sings their melodies to me,” Pereira says. “I hear their music through the tones of their voices, the rhythm of their dialogue, their extreme personalities, and how they interact with all the other characters in the story. When you write for one character, you have to think about all the others – it is how this melody can coexist and interact with the melodies of everybody else. Animation can be very intricate. My job is still to make it sound like the music was born along with it!”

A Harmonious Partnership: Pharrell Williams and Heitor Pereira

Pereira’s collaboration with Grammy Award-winner and Oscar® nominee Pharrell Williams has been instrumental in shaping the musical identity of the franchise. Williams’s original songs, including “Despicable Me,” “Happy,” and “Just A Cloud Away,” among many others, have become emblematic of the “Despicable Me” brand.

“In the first movie, we worked very closely together,” Pereira recalls. “Hans Zimmer introduced me to him and asked me if I would do an arrangement of the girls’ theme. I put my heart into it, showed it to them the next morning, and I got a gig and a new musical friend! He came to my studio many, many times, and we had a lot of fun. Since then, he writes his great songs, and I write the score. Even though I write the new themes for the new characters, Pharrell’s original themes are still there – as I pointed out, the girls’ theme, or Gru’s theme, which we ended up collaborating on, and I wrote the Minions’ theme. But, like him, I come from pop music, so my love for songs never goes away. I just see the score as a massive song! In doing that, Pharrell is ever-present.”

New Melodies for New Adventures

“Despicable Me 4” will feature a new original song from Williams, which reflects the double life that Gru leads in the film. “Gru is trying to live in peace in American suburbia, yet has to uproot his family to go on the run from his new enemies,” Williams says. “His family starts to catch on despite his efforts to hide the danger. The song is about struggling with keeping his identity as a secret agent despite wanting to be honest with his family.”

Williams’s partnership with Illumination and Pereira has enriched the “Despicable Me” franchise’s musical landscape. “Our goal is to connect with humans, building on themes and situations that resonate with most people,” Williams says. “We try to do it vividly and harmoniously. I remain a student and learn so much from Heitor every time we collaborate. He is a genius composer, a creatively articulate guitar player, a shining Brazilian talent.”

Gru’s New Journey

In “Despicable Me 4,” Gru’s (Steve Carell) life is turned upside down with the arrival of his and Lucy’s (Kristen Wiig) new baby, expanding his role to a father of four and a dedicated AVL agent. While on a mission with the fan-favorite minions, Gru comes face to face with the villain Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina (Sofia Vergara), and the family is forced to go on the run.

Packed with non-stop action and filled with Illumination’s signature subversive humor, “Despicable Me 4” is now showing in cinemas nationwide. #DespicableMe4PH

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July 4, 2024
New Movies This Week: ‘Despicable Me 4,’ ‘Whisper,’ and more!

Get ready for an exciting movie-filled Wednesday! And you know what that means – a fresh batch of movies are ready to light up your week! This week’s new movie releases offer a diverse range of genres and stories, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From the comedic escapades of a daring single mom in “Citizen of a Kind” to the animated family adventures of “Despicable Me 4,” the thrilling folklore of “Kuman Thong: Black Magic Baby,” the eerie mysteries in “The Promised,” and the supernatural suspense of “Whisper,” there’s something to draw everyone to the theaters. Don’t forget, some fan favorites are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Grab your movie squad, score that extra-buttered popcorn, and watch the movies hitting theaters near you!

Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:

Citizen of a Kind

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 53 mins
COMEDY, CRIME
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In a twist of fate, Duk-hee, a single mom turned sleuth, finds herself embroiled in a voice phishing scam that takes her from despair in her hometown to a daring adventure across China. With a potent mix of humor and heart, this comedy-crime film showcases the lengths one will go to reclaim what’s theirs. Ra Mi-ran’s performance as Duk-hee blends comedy with an indomitable spirit, making for a compelling watch.

Despicable Me 4

2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
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The world’s favorite reformed supervillain, Gru, returns with his delightful brood and a new addition, Gru Jr., who seems to have taken up the family business of causing mischief. Packed with action, laughs, and heartwarming family moments, “Despicable Me 4” is perfect for a family outing. Expect chaos, laughter, and a fresh villainous duo that promises to keep Gru—and you—on your toes!

Kuman Thong: Black Magic Baby

2024 • R-13 • 0 hr 0 mins
HORROR, THIRLLER
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Delve into the eerie world of Thai folklore with this chilling tale about a mystical figure believed to bring luck and peril. This horror-thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat with its suspenseful storyline and eerie atmosphere. It’s a perfect pick for those who love folklore entwined with modern-day horror.

The Promised

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 44 mins
HORROR
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In “The Promised,” young August unravels the haunting mysteries surrounding his origins. As he edges closer to the truth about his father, eerie occurrences escalate, leading to a heart-stopping journey. This film blends supernatural elements with a gripping family saga, making it a compelling choice for horror enthusiasts.

Whisper

2024 • R-13 • 1 hr 34 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
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“Whisper” takes you to a remote village under the grip of a sinister curse. This horror-thriller is a tale of survival and bravery as a brother fights against a supernatural threat to save his family. With tense moments and shocking twists, it promises a thrilling ride for those who dare to watch.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

A Quiet Place: Day One

2024 • PG • 1 hr 40 mins
HORROR, SCIENCE FICTION, THRILLER
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The Abbott family’s fight for survival in “A Quiet Place” left audiences on the edge of their seats. Now, “A Quiet Place: Day One” rewinds the clock, taking us right back to the moment the world went silent. Witness the initial chaos unfold in New York City as Evelyn Abbott (Lupita Nyong’o) fiercely protects her family from the arrival of blind, sound-hunting creatures. This sci-fi horror prequel promises heart-stopping suspense and a deeper understanding of the terrifying threat humanity faces.

Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1 (Opening Date: Friday, 28 Jun 2024)

2024 • R-13 • 3 hrs 1 min
DRAMA
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“Horizon: An American Saga (Chapter 1)” is a historical epic led by the iconic Kevin Costner. This miniseries tackles the turbulent period of the American Civil War (1861-1865). We see the conflict unfold through the eyes of families, friends,and even former enemies, exploring the struggle for national identity and the sacrifices made on both sides. Get ready for a sprawling and emotional journey in “Horizon” as it delves into the complexities of a nation divided.

Inside Out 2

2024 • PG • 1 hr 36 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, DRAMA, FAMILY
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How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies

2024 • G • 2 hrs 6 mins
DRAMA
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This week’s movie roster is brimming with potential chart-toppers, each offering a unique flavor to suit various tastes. Whether you’re planning a family day out, a solo adventure into the supernatural, or a fun night out with friends, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. So don’t miss out—grab your popcorn, pick your plot, round up your crew, and head to your nearest cinema to catch these must-watch films in action.

July 3, 2024
Meet the New Characters Bringing More Chaos in “Despicable Me 4” – In Cinemas July 3

It’s been seven years since the last “Despicable Me” movie graced theaters. So, what has everyone’s favorite villain-turned Anti-Villain League (AVL) agent been up to?

In this eagerly awaited “Despicable Me 4,” Gru (Steve Carell) faces a whirlwind of changes. With the arrival of his and Lucy’s (Kristen Wiig) new baby, Gru’s life expands into that of a father of four and a committed AVL agent. While on a mission with the fan-favorite Minions, Gru encounters the villain Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, forcing the family to go on the run.

Let’s dive into the new characters making waves in “Despicable Me 4”

Maxime Le Mal

Maxime Le Mal, voiced by Emmy winner Will Ferrell (“Anchorman,” “The Lego Movie”), is Gru’s high school nemesis. After Gru embarrasses Maxime by having him arrested at their class reunion for Lycee Pas Bon School of Villainy, Maxime’s grudge turns into an all-consuming vendetta. Escaping from prison, he relentlessly pursues Gru and his family, determined to settle the score.

Ferrell relished the chance to clash with Steve Carell’s Gru. “Who wouldn’t want to be part of the ‘Despicable Me’ universe?” Ferrell remarks. “Maxime is a blend of suave sophistication and deep-seated insecurity, creating a villain you love to hate, but also kinda feel sorry for. It was incredibly fun to explore that balance.”

Valentina

Valentina, voiced by Emmy nominee Sofía Vergara (“Modern Family”), was the most popular femme fatale at Lycee Pas Bon School of Villainy and is now Maxime’s girlfriend and pilot of his giant ship. “I was drawn to Valentina’s confidence and allure,” Vergara shares. “She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it, no matter the obstacles. Finding her fierce determination and softer, vulnerable moments was a creative challenge I enjoyed.”

Poppy Prescott

To protect Gru from Le Mal’s wrath, the AVL relocates Gru and his family to the quaint town of Mayflower under new identities. Poppy, voiced by Joey King (“Bullet Train,” “The Kissing Booth”), is Gru’s new teenage neighbor with dreams of becoming a supervillain. Obsessed with all things villainous, Poppy blackmails Gru into helping her pull a heist at Lycee Pas Bon School of Villainy.

King loved the voice-over freedom. “I adore playing Poppy! Adding a cute little lisp made her even more fun and memorable. It’s all about unleashing creativity without worrying about appearances.”

Perry Prescott

Perry, voiced by Emmy winner Stephen Colbert (“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”), is Poppy’s father and Gru’s new neighbor. As the face of Prescott Motors, Perry exudes confidence with a touch of arrogance. “Perry is loosely based on every ’80s teen comedy villain,” Colbert jokes. “I channeled my own pretentiousness to bring Perry to life.”

Patsy Prescott

Patsy, played by Chloe Fineman (“Saturday Night Live”), is Perry’s wife and Poppy’s mother. As a Mayflower socialite, Patsy balances suburban charm with sophistication. “Patsy is a delightful character with layers of complexity,” Fineman explains. “Exploring her dynamic with her husband and her role in the community was fascinating.”

Mega Minions

Back at AVL Headquarters, some Minions receive a super serum, transforming into the world’s newest chaotic superheroes: the Mega Minions (all voiced by Pierre Coffin, the Minions’ co-creator). Mega Dave boasts super strength, Mega Tim stretches over a mile long, Mega Mel unleashes a powerful laser blast, Mega Gus can fly, and Mega Jerry becomes an indestructible boulder.

Director Chris Renaud states, “Their powers are rooted in classic superhero tropes for instant recognition. We crafted a narrative arc that allowed them moments of unexpected heroism.”

Packed with non-stop action and Illumination’s signature subversive humor, “Despicable Me 4” opens in Philippine cinemas on July 3. #DespicableMe4PH

Stay updated with Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok for the latest on “Despicable Me 4.”

July 1, 2024
Gru’s Hilarious Family Adventure in “Despicable Me 4” Hits Cinemas July 3

Gru is back, and this time, he’s juggling fatherhood with world-saving antics in the highly anticipated “Despicable Me 4.” Mark your calendars for July 3, when this animated adventure hits Philippine cinemas.

Gru’s New Role: Father of Four

“Gru has his hands full, as usual,” says Steve Carell, who voices the beloved villain-turned-good-guy Gru. In this latest installment of the Despicable Me franchise, Gru’s life takes a turn with the arrival of his and Lucy’s (Kristen Wiig) new baby, expanding his role to a father of four and a dedicated Anti-Villain League (AVL) agent.

Watch the trailer below :

While Gru’s relationship with Lucy and the girls has never been stronger, connecting with little Gru Jr. proves challenging. “Lucy and the girls have always been his motivation to be the best that he can be, but with the arrival of Gru Jr., the family dynamic changes,” continues Carell. “Gru Jr. is a chip off the old block, but he’s not warming up to dear old dad. Gru has nothing but love for his baby boy, but he faces an uphill battle to win his son’s affection. It’s every parent’s nightmare to not instantly bond with your kids, and Gru struggles to establish a relationship with his new bundle of joy, while simultaneously saving the world as an AVL agent.”

A New Nemesis and Witness Protection

As if parenting challenges weren’t hard enough, Gru and his family are thrust into a witness protection program after Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell), Gru’s high school nemesis and award-winning supervillain, escapes from prison seeking revenge. Gru must assume the identity of Chet Cunningham, a solar panel salesman, to protect his loved ones. “Gru struggles to live discretely as his new alias, Chet Cunningham; a boring, somewhat nerdy solar-panel salesman,” Carell says. “It’s a stretch for Gru, as he’s accustomed to a life of excitement and danger. Also, he’s not the best actor, so that invariably leads to some problems!”

The Enduring Journey of Gru

When Carell first took on the role of Gru, he never anticipated the enduring journey ahead. “From day one, Gru has been an absolute delight to play,” Carell says. “When we first meet him, he’s an evil, villainous criminal mastermind. But soon, we come to see that he also has an enormous heart, and a great capacity to love. He’s sort of a villain, kind of a hero. But mostly, he’s a husband and a father.

“I think that it’s fun to watch a character fight against the inevitability of their own goodness. Some people aren’t so nice, but they try to convince the world that they are; Gru is nice, but he tries to convince the world that he’s not! As the series has progressed, the writers have explored different aspects of Gru’s world. He’s still the same guy, but the emotional stakes become increasingly higher for him. It’s always rewarding to see a character grow, and Gru is no exception. The writing keeps the character fresh.”

A Decade of Gru

The Despicable Me filmmakers have also enjoyed their collaboration with Carell for over ten years. Director Chris Renaud shares his admiration for Carell’s portrayal of Gru. As much fun as the Academy Award®-nominated Carell has been having being the voice of Gru, the Despicable Me filmmakers have also been enjoying their collaboration of more than 10 years with Carell, who has become synonymous with the iconic character Gru in the world of Despicable Me.

“Steve basically is Gru,” director Chris Renaud says, in admiration of how Carell has brought to life the lovable yet complex supervillain-turned-family-man, thanks to his comedic brilliance and emotional depth. “It’s impossible to imagine that character without Steve’s voice. He approaches the character with thoughtfulness and care, always striving for the best performance. Our recording sessions, sometimes lasting up to three hours, are a testament to Steve’s unwavering energy and professionalism. He’s a pleasure to collaborate with.”

An Exciting New Cast

Besides Will Ferrell as the new movie’s big villain, “Despicable Me 4” welcomes new characters voiced by Sofia Vergara (“Modern Family”), Joey King (“Bullet Train”), Stephen Colbert (“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”), and Chloe Fineman (“Saturday Night Live”).

Get Ready for Non-Stop Action

Packed with non-stop action and filled with Illumination’s signature subversive humor, Despicable Me 4 opens in Philippine cinemas July 3. Be sure to follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, UniversalPicturesPH on Instagram, and UniversalPicsPH on TikTok for the latest updates on this highly anticipated release. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #DespicableMe4PH.

June 22, 2024
Experience Mega Excitement with “Despicable Me 4” – New Mega Minions Unveiled!

Prepare for an explosive return to the world of Gru, Lucy, and their adorable children—Margo, Edith, Agnes, and Gru Jr.—as they face a brand-new challenge in “Despicable Me 4,” coming to Philippine cinemas on July 3. This latest installment from Illumination promises to blend heartwarming family moments with edge-of-your-seat action.

A New Threat Emerges

In the heart of this new adventure, Gru’s family finds themselves on the run from a formidable new antagonist, Maxime Le Mal, and his captivating sidekick, Valentina. As danger looms, Silas Ramsbottom steps out of retirement, devising a daring plan involving a groundbreaking super serum that transforms the beloved minions into elite agents—the Mega Minions.

Office Chaos to Mega Heroism

The trailer gives us a glimpse of the minions like never before. Donned in sleek suits, they navigate through mundane office life—complete with cubicles, birthday parties, and photocopiers—before chaos erupts. With their new roles, these Mega Minions are on a mission to ensure the safety of Gru and his family.

Star-Studded Voices Bring Life to New Characters

Voiced by returning talent including Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, and the iconic Pierre Coffin as the minions, the film also introduces new characters voiced by notable stars such as Joey King, Stephen Colbert, and Chloe Fineman, adding fresh flair to the beloved franchise.

Don’t Miss the Mega Action!

“Despicable Me 4” promises to deliver non-stop action and Illumination’s trademark subversive humor. Be sure to catch it in Philippine cinemas starting July 3. Follow along for updates and exclusive content on Universal Pictures PH social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

May 8, 2024
Mayhem Unleashed: Watch the ‘Despicable Me 4’ Trailer Now – In Cinemas July 3

The much-anticipated trailer for “Despicable Me 4” has finally dropped, signaling the return of the beloved franchise with more laughter, chaos, and family adventures. Premiering in Philippine cinemas on July 3, this new chapter brings together old favorites and new faces in a storyline that promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

A Fresh Start with Familiar Faces

In “Despicable Me 4,” the saga continues with Gru (Steve Carell), the former supervillain turned hero, alongside his wife Lucy (Kristen Wiig) and their daughters Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier), and Agnes (Elle McKinnon). The family dynamic takes a hilarious turn with the introduction of Gru Jr., a new addition who is eager to follow in his dad’s mischievous footsteps.

New Challenges on the Horizon

The tranquility of family life is short-lived as Gru encounters his newest adversary, Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell), accompanied by his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina (Sofia Vergara). This new villain duo sets the stage for a thrilling narrative filled with unexpected twists and high-stakes action, pushing Gru and his family into a corner.

An Ensemble of Talent

“Despicable Me 4” boasts an impressive cast, including the voices of Joey King, Stephen Colbert, and Chloe Fineman, alongside the return of Pierre Coffin as the Minions and Steve Coogan as Silas Ramsbottom. This blend of returning stars and new talent ensures the film’s signature blend of humor, warmth, and excitement.

Your Invitation to Adventure

With its blend of action, humor, and heart, “Despicable Me 4” is poised to be a summer blockbuster that will delight fans and newcomers alike. The trailer offers just a glimpse of the fun and adventures that await, so make sure to follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest news and updates.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey with “Despicable Me 4” – mark your calendar for July 3 and get ready to experience the magic, laughter, and mayhem that only Gru and his family can deliver. Watch the trailer now and join in the excitement!

February 1, 2024