Despicable Me – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Despicable Me

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2010

78%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A supervillain adopts three orphans for a heist and accidentally becomes a dad—surprisingly sweet beneath all the fart guns.

7.6/10

80%

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Despicable Me

movie

PG, 2010

78%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A supervillain adopts three orphans for a heist and accidentally becomes a dad—surprisingly sweet beneath all the fart guns.

7.6

80%

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7.6/10

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Screenwise Verdict

This is what a family film should be: funny without being dumb, sweet without being cloying, and entertaining across ages. Gru's transformation from wannabe supervillain to devoted dad is legitimately touching, and the film earns its emotional moments instead of manipulating you into them.

The animation holds up well for 2010, the voice acting is strong (Steve Carell's accent is ridiculous but committed), and the pacing keeps things moving. Yes, there are fart guns and Minion gibberish, but the humor is more clever than crass.

Fair warning: this movie spawned a franchise that gradually devolved into Minion chaos, but the original remains genuinely good. It's one of those rare animated films where the 'kids' movie' label undersells it—adults will actually enjoy watching this, not just tolerate it. A solid choice for family movie night that won't make anyone groan.

Age Fit

Best for ages 6-12, though adults will find plenty to enjoy. Common Sense Media's age 6+ recommendation is spot-on—younger kids might find a few moments mildly tense, but most first-graders can handle it. Teens and adults still watch it for nostalgia and genuine laughs.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

A reformed-villain story that genuinely earns its emotional beats. Gru's transformation from selfish criminal to caring father happens through relationships with three orphaned girls who see past his gruff exterior. The film models empathy, cooperation, and the idea that people can change. Some mild rude humor (fart guns, slapstick) keeps it from being saccharine, but the core message about family and belonging is solid. The pacing is energetic without tipping into chaos.

Imaginative

Visually inventive with memorable character design—the Minions became cultural icons for a reason. The world-building is playful (shrink rays, moon heists, underground villain lairs) and the animation style was fresh for 2010. However, it's more about clever execution of familiar tropes than groundbreaking originality. Kids enjoy the absurdist humor and gadgetry, but it doesn't necessarily invite creative play or deep curiosity the way some Pixar films do.

Safe

Rated PG for rude humor and mild action. Common Sense Media recommends age 6+, which tracks—there's cartoon violence (freeze rays, missiles, explosions) but nothing graphic or scary. No profanity, no sexual content, no substance use. The 'villain' premise is clearly comedic rather than threatening. A few mild peril moments (kids in danger briefly) but nothing traumatic. IMDb parent guide confirms: mild violence, no nudity, no profanity, no drugs. Very predictable and safe for family viewing.

Enriching

Entertaining first, enriching second. The redemption arc offers some emotional growth and the film explores themes of loneliness, belonging, and what makes a family. Kids can discuss adoption, stereotypes (villains aren't always bad), and sacrifice. But it's primarily a comedy—lots of slapstick and Minion antics that are fun but don't add depth. The humor has aged reasonably well, and there are some touching moments, but it's not particularly thought-provoking beyond its central message.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely funny for both kids and adults—the Minions are silly without being annoying (at least in this first film)
Thoughtful exploration of adoption and found family that doesn't feel preachy
Gru's character arc from selfish villain to devoted father is earned and touching
Visually creative with memorable design and energetic animation
Short enough (95 min) to hold attention without overstaying its welcome

⚠

What to Watch For

Mild cartoon violence and peril—freeze rays, explosions, kids briefly in danger (nothing scary for most 6+)
Rude humor includes fart guns, butt jokes, and slapstick—harmless but eye-roll-worthy for some parents
The 'villain' premise is clearly comedic, but very sensitive younger kids might need reassurance
Spawned an entire franchise of increasingly mindless sequels and Minion spin-offs—this first one is the best

Conversation Starters

"Why do you think the girls wanted Gru to be their dad even though he was grumpy at first?"
"What made Gru change from being selfish to caring about the girls?"
"Do you think villains in real life can change like Gru did? What would help them?"
"Which was your favorite part—the moon heist, the dance recital, or something else?"

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