Why was Despicable Me 4 a box office hit?

Despicable Me 4's financial success was driven by strong audience demand and its appeal as a major animated release during a critical summer period.

Did critics like Despicable Me 4?

Critical reception for Despicable Me 4 was mixed, but this did not prevent it from achieving significant box office success.

What saved the summer box office in 2024?

Animated films like Despicable Me 4 and Inside Out 2 were key in reviving the summer 2024 box office after a slow start.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Minions Save Summer Blockbuster Season

Minions Save Summer Blockbuster Season

15 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Despicable Me 4's July 3 release boosted struggling box office.
Animation, not action, revived summer movie hopes.
Gru's latest adventure defied critical reviews for financial success.

The summer 2024 blockbuster season received a much-needed jolt with the release of "Despicable Me 4" on July 3, 2024. After a shaky start, with major releases like "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" underperforming, the animated sequel, alongside "Inside Out 2," delivered significant box office numbers. This success was crucial for Universal and Hollywood, signaling a potential return to normalcy after years of pandemic-related struggles and industry disruptions.

The film, featuring Steve Carell reprising his role as Gru, brought audiences back with its signature blend of action, gadgets, and family themes. Despite not earning widespread critical acclaim, its financial performance was undeniable. This outcome highlights the enduring appeal of established animated franchises in drawing crowds to theaters, a vital element for the industry's recovery.

"Despicable Me 4" ultimately became the unlikely hero the domestic box office needed during the July 4th weekend. Its strong financial performance demonstrates the resilience and drawing power of animated content, offering a hopeful outlook for future movie releases and the broader entertainment landscape.