The Minions have taken the world by storm, and it can be tricky to figure out the best order to watch their movies. To enjoy the full story from start to finish, you should watch the Despicable Me movies in chronological order. This includes starting with “Minions” (2015) and moving through to “Despicable Me 4” (2024).
Watching in this sequence helps you follow the Minions’ journey and understand how they became Gru’s loyal sidekicks. It also adds depth to the characters’ backstories, making their adventures even more entertaining. Knowing the correct order ensures you don’t miss any important details. Ready to dive into the world of Minions and Despicable Me? Explore each movie in the right sequence to fully appreciate the fun, mischief, and heartwarming moments these little yellow creatures bring to the screen.
The Minions Movie Franchise Overview
The movie franchise is part of the larger Despicable Me series. These movies include several films that blend humor with heartwarming moments.
The franchise began with Despicable Me in 2010. It introduced the character Gru and his yellow minions. Since then, the movies have expanded to include sequels and spin-offs.
You can watch the movies in two ways: by release date or chronologically.
Release Order of Minions Films
| S.no | Movies | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Despicable Me | July 9, 2010 |
| 2 | Despicable Me 2 | July 3, 2013 |
| 3 | Minions | July 10, 2015 |
| 4 | Despicable Me 3 | June 30, 2017 |
| 5 | Minions: The Rise of Gru | July 1, 2022 |
| 6 | Despicable Me 4 | July 3, 2024 |
These movies explore the lives of the minions and their adventures. From working with dinosaurs to joining forces with Gru, they have a long history. Their unique language and funny antics make them beloved by fans.
The Despicable Me movies have gained huge popularity, raking in billions of dollars. The franchise continues to grow, keeping audiences entertained with each new release.
Chronological Order of Minions Films
To watch the Minion and Despicable Me films in chronological order, follow the timeline of major events and character origins. This viewing order will help you understand the story and development of the characters.
1. Minions
The movie Minions starts millions of years ago, when the tiny yellow creatures evolve from single-celled organisms. The main part of the film happens in 1968. In this film, the Minion search for a new evil master to serve. They find themselves employed by Scarlet Overkill, the world’s first female super-villain, who has plans to steal the British crown. Your enjoyment of the film comes from seeing how the Minion’ origins tie into their future in the Despicable Me series.
IMDb Rating 6.4/10
2. Minions: The Rise of Gru
Minions: The Rise of Gru takes place in the 1970s. This sequel to Minions explores how Gru, an 11-year-old, first meets the Minion and starts his journey to becoming a super-villain. The story details Gru’s early ambitions and his first encounters with his future nemeses. This film provides essential background information for understanding Gru’s motivations and his bond with the Minion.
IMDb Rating 6.5/10
3. Despicable Me
Despicable Me is set in the present day and marks Gru’s first appearance as a main character. In this film, Gru adopts three orphan girls, Margo, Edith, and Agnes, who change his life. Gru’s initial plan is to use the girls in a plot to steal the Moon, but he ends up becoming a caring father. This movie shows Gru’s transformation from villain to hero, with the Minion providing comic relief and support.
IMDb Rating 7.6/10
4. Despicable Me 2
Despicable Me 2 continues the story of Gru and his adopted daughters. Now a good guy, Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to help stop a new villain, El Macho. Gru teams up with agent Lucy Wilde, and the film explores their growing relationship. The Minions are crucial in this movie as they face a new threat that transforms them into evil purple Minions. The film is key in showing Gru’s evolving character and his moral code.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
5. Despicable Me 3
In Despicable Me 3, Gru learns he has a twin brother named Dru who wants to follow in his villainous footsteps. Gru, now married to Lucy, struggles with the conflict between his past and present. The main antagonist is Balthazar Bratt, a former child star. The Minions also go on a side adventure that involves them being imprisoned. This movie shows how Gru balances his family life with his complicated past.
IMDb Rating 6.2/10
6. Despicable Me 4
Despicable Me 4, the latest film set to release in 2024, continues the adventures of Gru and his family. Gru Jr., Gru’s son, joins the family and causes trouble by tormenting his father. The story introduces new villains like Maxime Le Mal and his girlfriend Valentina, forcing the family to go on the run. This new dynamic adds interesting layers to Gru’s character and family relationships.
IMDb Rating 6.2/10
Frequently Asked Questions
How many films are in the Minions and Despicable Me franchise?
There are six movies in the Minions and Despicable Me series. This includes the original three Despicable Me movies and a prequel, along with two Minions spin-offs.
Which movie introduces the Minions in the Despicable Me universe?
The Minions first appear in the 2010 movie Despicable Me, where they work for Gru, the main character.
When is Despicable Me 4 anticipated to be released?
Despicable Me 4 is expected to be released in July 2024.