The Gentle-Minion trend!
Remember, when Minions: The Rise of Gru was released, back in 2022, and a bunch of lads in America started the trend, wherein you all go to the cinema dressed in suits to see the film. Now, as an unapologetic fan of the franchise, I understand that there is a fan base there. And how else to salute your favourite dungaree wearing army? Get together with your fellow adults and form, what some might call, a cult!
Now in the UK, the trend caught traction through TikTok, where streams of American teenagers were heading to their local cinemas, dressed to the nines, and then proceeding to cause havoc. Many reports include heckling at the screens and even throwing bananas through the crowds, as if part of the Minion clan. Get it now? Well, I don’t!
The first time our banana loving friends made an appearance on the big screen was back in 2010, and I think it’s fair to say, they made quite the impression. Not only continuing on as Gru’s loyal assistants for 4 films, but also gaining their own origin storylines, these little guys have clearly got our attention.
So, 12 years on, it is no wonder that a global trend was created in their honour. But at what cost?
We’ve seen some of the physical fallout from cinemagoers causing chaos, disrupting the immersive experience that actually going to the cinema gives you. But what about the franchise as a whole. The next film to hit the big screen is Despicable Me 4, all about Gru and his new family life; how him, Lucy, his newborn son (Gru Jr., obviously!) and 3 adoptive daughters are all living harmoniously.
Oh, and the Minions are there of course!
Will the GentleMinion trend continue this year, despite this not being their film? Or will there be an understanding that, this franchise is aimed at children, so let’s keep it that way?!
We’ll have to wait for the Summer to see if the lads emerge all dressed up for Cineworld in town on a Monday night. Until then, let’s focus on the trailer for Despicable Me 4, and be thankful, that 14 years on, Illumination still know what the fans want – banana loving, dungaree wearing pals!
Despicable Me 4 is in cinemas on the 12th of July, 2024.
