The world’s favorite villain-turned-dad is back — and this time, he’s facing his most hilarious challenge yet: sibling rivalry. Despicable Me 3 brings together all the chaos, color, and heart that made the franchise a global phenomenon, with Steve Carell returning as Gru — now a devoted father, a reluctant hero, and suddenly… a twin? Packed with 1980s nostalgia, slapstick humor, and the ever-mischievous Minions, this third chapter continues the series’ winning mix of laughter and love. Here’s everything you need to know about Despicable Me 3 — from the plot and cast to reviews and where to stream it. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
All the key details about Despicable Me 3
- Title: Despicable Me 3
- Format: Movie
- Length: 90 minutes
- Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family, Adventure
- Year of release: 2017
- Director: Pierre Coffin, Kyle Balda
- Main cast: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Trey Parker, Miranda Cosgrove
- Produced by: Illumination Entertainment / Universal Pictures
What happens in Despicable Me 3?
Gru has settled into domestic life with Lucy and his three adopted daughters when he suddenly loses his job as a secret agent. Just as things couldn’t get worse, he discovers he has a long-lost twin brother, Dru — charming, wealthy, and eager to bring out Gru’s villainous side again.
Meanwhile, a flamboyant new supervillain named Balthazar Bratt — a former child star obsessed with the ’80s — threatens the world with his bizarre retro gadgets and dance battles. What follows is a wild family reunion filled with mistaken loyalties, Minion mischief, and a heartfelt reminder that even villains can change for love and family.
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Who’s in the cast of Despicable Me 3?
Steve Carell pulls double duty as both Gru and Dru, creating two distinct, hilarious personalities. Kristen Wiig returns as Lucy, the ever-supportive and slightly chaotic partner in crime (and life). Trey Parker, co-creator of South Park, voices Balthazar Bratt with perfect comedic flair, while Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, and Nev Scharrel lend warmth to the three daughters.
Is Despicable Me 3 based on a true story?
No, this is pure animated fiction. However, the film draws inspiration from ’80s pop culture, TV tropes, and retro music videos that shaped a generation.
What are the reviews on Despicable Me 3?
Critics called Despicable Me 3 “a zany, candy-colored delight” that keeps the franchise fresh through its energy and visual inventiveness. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 58% critics score and a strong 61% audience rating, while IMDb users rate it 6.2/10. Viewers praised its humor and emotional warmth, even if the plot felt lighter than the first two entries.
Where was Despicable Me 3 filmed?
The movie was produced and animated by Illumination Mac Guff in Paris, continuing the studio’s signature European animation style that gives the series its distinctive charm.
Despicable Me 3: Behind the scenes and fun facts
- Steve Carell improvised several lines while switching between Gru and Dru’s accents.
- Balthazar Bratt’s character was inspired by real ’80s TV villains and Michael Jackson’s dance moves.
- The Minions’ “Banana Song” briefly returns, alongside a funky new score by Pharrell Williams.
- The film grossed over $1 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing animated movies ever.
What’s Despicable Me 3 like?
If you loved Minions, The Secret Life of Pets, or Sing, this movie delivers the same blend of family humor and over-the-top adventure. It’s a high-energy ride for kids and adults alike — silly, sweet, and full of heart.
When is Despicable Me 3 coming out on streaming?
Available now. Despicable Me 3 is already streaming on Netflix USA, bringing family fun and Minion madness back to your screen. Release date: November 1, 2025. Watch on Netflix.
Watch the trailer
In the meantime, here’s the trailer.
