Minions 3D

The breakout stars of Despicable Me headline their own movie for the first time in Minions, the prequel to Despicable Me and Despicable Me 2. The story of the Minions begins at the dawn of time. Starting as single-celled yellow organisms, Minions evolve through the ages, perpetually serving the most despicable of masters. Continuously unsuccessful at keeping these masters—from T. Rex to Napoleon—the Minions find themselves without someone to serve and fall into a deep depression. But one Minion named Kevin has a plan and he—alongside teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob—ventures out into the world to find a new evil boss for his brethren to follow. The trio embark upon a thrilling journey that ultimately leads them to their next potential master, Scarlet Overkill (Bullock) the world’s first-ever female super-villain. They travel from frigid Antarctica to 1960’s New York City, ending in “mod” London, where they must face their biggest challenge to date: saving all of Minionkind…from annihilation. (Gary Reber)

Special features include three all-new original mini movies: Cro Minion (HD 04:25), Competition (HD 03:47), and Binky Nelson Unpacified (HD 04:34); the deleted scene Me, Myself And Stuart (HD 00:29); an Around The World Interactive Map; Behind The Goggles—The Illumination Story Of The Minions; the Writer, Boss' Office, and Art Department Concept Art Gallery stills; Color Script Gallery stills; Composer, Actors Studio, Notice Board stills; a Safety Video; Illumination Macguff Animation—Animation, Lighting, Layout And Effects; 3D Models Gallery stills, Directors, Producers, Editorial, Storyboard Artist, and Stuart Hot Tub Storyboard Gallery stills; Jingle Bells Minion Style (HD 01:52); The Secret Life Of Pets theatrical trailer; upfront previews; and an UltraViolet digital copy.

The 1.85:1 1080p MVC 3D picture is absolutely fabulous! The animated 3D is naturally dimensional, with convincing depth and perspective, which effectively varies depending on scenes. Especially during foreground scenes, the depth is visually stunning. Even character and object volume and scale is impressive. Occasionally, objects are projected out-of-screen, but always with taste. Of course, this enhances the excitement. The color palette is vividly saturated with strong primaries, with Scarlet reds and Minion yellows that pop. Fleshtones are perfectly rendered, for a varied natural palette. Contrast is superb with deep, solid blacks and nicely detailed shadows. Resolution is wonderfully detailed in the foreground and backgrounds, as well as during close-ups. Clothing and object textures are exquisite. The character rendering is so creative and diversified in a fun way. While the 2D version is excellent, it just cannot compete with the 3D rendering. Dimensionally visual, this is an absolute treat for the eyes and guaranteed to enthrall every viewer no matter what age. This a reference 3D picture throughout! (Gary Reber)

The Dolby Atmos/Dolby TrueHD 7.1-channel soundtrack at times is nicely dynamic and spatially holosonic®, while other times is frontal focused with no surround energy. The added back channels are used conservatively, and the height channels enhance the sense of spherical soundfield immersion. Atmospherics and sound effects are superb, with a wide stereo soundstage and extension to the surrounds during the more energized scenes. Foley is quite impressive, as there is often a tremendous amount involved throughout. Deep bass in the .1 LFE channel extends to sub-25 Hz frequencies during explosions and, especially, when Kevin becomes a giant Minion. The orchestral music score is nicely recorded with a wide and deep soundstage presence that extends to the surrounds. The music features numerous pop tunes, which also are nicely presented. Dialogue sounds natural with a good sense of spatial integration. Giant Kevin's voice aggressively reverberates throughout the soundfield. Amazingly, Director Pierre Coffin voices all of the Minions, even when they sing. This is a very fun soundtrack, with lots of unique sounds and dynamic character that really enhances the 3D experience. (Gary Reber)