It’s difficult to talk about “Despicable Me” without mentioning the Minions. Family audiences have turned these unusual characters into a certified smash. I’m not surprised. Five years have turned the first two “Despicable Me” movies into a DVD babysitter for kids. Eventually, the Minions had to get their own vehicle. So what if it comes up short in originality and surprise? It’s still a first class charm assault. The plot, cooked by Brian Lynch, is set in 1968 (way before Gru’s evil master plan) and involves the Minions travelling the world to find a master they could serve and protect. There are plenty of colorful characters and locations along the way and co-directors Kyle Balda and Pierre Coffin (who also does minions voices expertly) never let up on the laughs. With excellent voice work by Sandra Bullock (as the evil Scarlett Overkill), Michael Keaton, John Hamm and Steve Coogan, “Minions” offers funny entertainment for kids and adults alike. More important, it stays true to its original source. It’s definitely a winner in my book.

Rating: 3/4