Steve Carell has suggested that the Despicable Me franchise is successful because the films don’t speak down to children.
The Anchorman star – who reprises his role as Gru in Despicable Me 2 – said that he appreciates how his animated movies present big ideas to young viewers.
“One of the things I liked about the first one is that it’s not condescending towards children. It really is a sophisticated kind of humour that I think kids really enjoy.”
He added that Despicable Me 2 is particularly interesting because its storyline centres on Gru’s determination to change his villainous ways in order to best raise his daughters.
“There’s a side of him that still wants to be a villain.
“Gru wants the excitement and is fulfilled by that, so he’s having growing pains as a father.”
The voice cast for the movie features Russell Brand as Dr Nefario, Kristen Wiig as Lucy Wilde and Steve Coogan as Silas Ramsbottom.