Minions Movies in Order – Chronology (September 2024)

Have you ever watched a movie series out of order and missed key plot points? That’s why knowing the correct sequence is important for a series like Minions and Despicable Me. The films aren’t just random events. They follow the journey of Gru from an ambitious villain to a loving father and a quirky hero. While the prequels focus more on the Minions’ adventures, their connection with Gru remains at the core of the entire saga.

If you’re someone who enjoys seeing how characters grow or how relationships develop over time, the order in which you watch the films can make a big difference. It’s more than just Gru becoming a father or a villain—it’s about how the Minions fit into his life at different stages. Watching them in the correct order will give you a better understanding of the overall story. After all, who wouldn’t want to follow Gru’s journey from stealing the moon to raising his daughters?

Minions All Movies in Chronological Order

When it comes to Minions and Despicable Me, understanding the chronological timeline gives you a clear picture of how the Minions’ relationship with Gru evolves over time. While the release order makes sense from a production standpoint, the chronological order offers a more coherent narrative. Here’s how the movies stack up based on the timeline:

Minions (2015)

Minions is the first movie you should watch if you’re following the chronological timeline. Although it was released after two Despicable Me films, this movie is actually a prequel. It begins way back in time, giving us a glimpse into the origins of the Minions as single-celled organisms. Fast forward to 1968, and you’ll see Kevin, Stuart, and Bob setting out on a quest to find a new supervillain to serve. Their journey leads them to Scarlet Overkill, the first female supervillain, but the real highlight is their first meeting with a young Gru. This event sets the stage for the entire Despicable Me series.

The film answers a lot of questions about the Minions, such as why they are so loyal to Gru. It’s a fun origin story that provides context for the Minions’ antics in later films. Even though the movie focuses on the Minions, Gru’s cameo towards the end hints at the major role he will play in their future.

Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)

Set in 1976, Minions: The Rise of Gru follows immediately after the events of Minions. In this film, a young Gru begins his journey to become a supervillain, with the Minions right by his side. Gru’s relationship with the Minions begins to take shape, and they start working together, even though Gru is still a child at this point. The plot revolves around Gru’s attempt to join a notorious supervillain group, the Vicious 6, which leads to a series of misadventures for him and his yellow henchmen.

This movie plays a key role in showing how Gru transforms from an ambitious kid with villainous dreams into the full-fledged supervillain we see in Despicable Me. It also highlights how important the Minions become in his life, cementing their bond for the rest of the series. By the end of this film, Gru is well on his way to becoming the iconic character we know and love, with the Minions standing loyally by his side.

Despicable Me (2010)

Despicable Me is where it all started for most fans, and in the chronological timeline, it takes place after Minions: The Rise of Gru. Set in 2012, the film introduces us to Gru, now a full-fledged supervillain, who has his sights set on stealing the moon. Gru’s elaborate plan is what initially establishes him as a mastermind, but the real story unfolds when he unexpectedly adopts three orphaned girls—Margo, Edith, and Agnes.

This movie is pivotal because it shows the beginning of Gru’s transformation. At the start, Gru is entirely focused on his villainous schemes. However, as the plot progresses, his growing bond with the girls forces him to reassess his priorities. The Minions, who have followed him loyally since his early days, play their usual chaotic yet helpful role throughout the film, contributing to both his plans and his parenting.

Gru’s interaction with the girls is a key turning point in the entire series. It marks the beginning of his evolution from villain to reluctant hero. The film also introduces his rivalry with Vector, a competing villain, which adds another layer of excitement. While Despicable Me is primarily Gru’s story, it sets up the dynamic between Gru and the Minions, which only grows stronger in future installments.

Despicable Me 2 (2013)

In Despicable Me 2, we see a major shift in Gru’s character. After his villainous days in Despicable Me, Gru has settled into his new role as a loving father to Margo, Edith, and Agnes. The Minions continue to assist him in his domestic life, and their quirky interactions keep things light-hearted. However, Gru’s peaceful life doesn’t last long. The Anti-Villain League (AVL) recruits him to help take down a new threat: a mysterious supervillain who has stolen a top-secret formula.

One of the standout elements of this film is the introduction of Lucy Wilde, a quirky agent from the AVL. At first, Gru is reluctant to work with her, but as the story progresses, their partnership blossoms into a romance. The film skillfully balances action, comedy, and family dynamics. Gru’s transformation from a villain into a hero takes center stage as he begins to embrace his new role, not just as a father, but also as a defender of the greater good.

Another key plot point is the role of the Minions. In this movie, they are abducted and mutated into evil versions of themselves by the villain, El Macho. Gru and Lucy must team up to save the Minions and prevent El Macho’s evil plan. The transformation of the Minions adds an exciting twist, providing plenty of action and humor. Ultimately, Gru’s growing relationship with Lucy and the challenges they face together cements the film as a crucial part of the Despicable Me timeline.

Despicable Me 3 (2017)

In Despicable Me 3, the storyline takes a dramatic turn as Gru’s family dynamic evolves and a long-lost family member enters the scene. The film introduces Dru, Gru’s twin brother, who is the polar opposite of Gru in both personality and lifestyle. While Gru is reserved and serious, Dru is cheerful, wealthy, and eager to continue the family tradition of villainy. The discovery of Dru provides a fresh twist to the plot, as Gru is pulled back into the world of villainy, despite his efforts to live a more heroic life.

The main antagonist of Despicable Me 3 is Balthazar Bratt, a former child star turned supervillain who is obsessed with the 1980s. Bratt’s flamboyant personality and retro-themed crimes add a lot of humor to the film, and his rivalry with Gru drives much of the action. As Gru and Dru team up to take on Bratt, the film showcases the brothers’ sibling rivalry and eventual bonding, creating a new dynamic in Gru’s life.

Meanwhile, the Minions experience their own subplot. Frustrated by Gru’s refusal to return to villainy, many of the Minions abandon him and go on their own adventure, which leads to a series of hilarious situations. Despite their brief separation, the Minions ultimately return to Gru, reinforcing their unwavering loyalty.

Overall, Despicable Me 3 adds layers to Gru’s character by exploring his family ties, while still delivering the humor and action that fans expect from the series. The interaction between Gru, Dru, and the Minions keeps the film fast-paced and entertaining.

Despicable Me 4 (2024)

The highly anticipated Despicable Me 4 is set to hit theaters in 2024, continuing the beloved story of Gru, Lucy, their daughters, and, of course, the Minions. Although much about the plot remains under wraps, what we do know suggests that Gru will face new challenges, not just as a reformed villain, but also as a father and a husband. It’s expected that the family’s dynamic will evolve even further, especially with the possibility of new additions to the family or larger conflicts on the horizon.

There are hints that Despicable Me 4 will introduce new villains, as Gru and Lucy continue their work with the Anti-Villain League. However, the movie may also focus more on their personal life, including raising their daughters and possibly dealing with Gru’s twin brother, Dru. The sibling rivalry and Dru’s mischievous side could create an interesting storyline that adds depth to the plot.

The Minions will undoubtedly continue to play a central role in the movie, providing their usual blend of chaos and humor. Fans are also speculating about what new misadventures the Minions will get into this time around. Given the franchise’s track record, Despicable Me 4 promises to be another exciting installment filled with action, laughs, and heartwarming moments.

Spin-offs and Short Films You Shouldn’t Miss

In addition to the main Despicable Me and Minions films, there are several spin-offs and short films that add extra fun and depth to the franchise. These short films are perfect for fans who want a quick dose of Minions humor or additional stories about their favorite characters. While they may not be crucial to the main plot, they offer amusing side stories and give more screen time to the beloved Minions.

Minions & More 1 (2022)

This collection of mini-movies includes a variety of shorts starring the Minions. Some popular titles in this compilation include “Competition” and “Cro Minion.” These shorts give fans more of the wacky antics that the Minions are known for, without diving into the larger plotlines of the main movies. The humor and charm in these mini-stories make them a must-watch for Minions lovers.

Despicable Me Presents: Minion Madness (2010)

Released alongside the first Despicable Me, this mini-collection includes three short films: Orientation Day, Home Makeover, and Banana. Each short offers hilarious Minion-centered stories that show their chaotic nature. From home renovation gone wrong to fighting over a banana, these mini-films are packed with slapstick comedy. If you enjoyed the first movie, you’ll definitely love these additions.

Mower Minions (2016)

This short, released with The Secret Life of Pets, follows the Minions as they attempt to raise money by mowing lawns. Of course, their lawn-mowing adventure doesn’t go as planned, leading to a series of humorous events. Though brief, it’s a fun look at the Minions’ wild and unpredictable behavior.

These short films and spin-offs offer a lighter, more playful glimpse into the world of the Minions, making them great for quick laughs in between the main films.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does the chronological order differ from the release order of Minions movies?

The chronological order starts with Minions (2015), while the release order begins with Despicable Me (2010). Chronological viewing offers a more cohesive timeline of Gru’s story.

2. Is it necessary to watch the Minions spin-offs and short films?

The spin-offs and shorts are optional and mainly offer additional humor. They don’t affect the main storylines.

3. Will Despicable Me 4 continue the story of Gru’s family?

Despicable Me 4 will continue the family-centric plot, introducing new challenges and possibly new villains.

4. Can I watch Minions: The Rise of Gru without watching the other movies first?

You can enjoy Minions: The Rise of Gru as a standalone, but watching earlier films gives more context to Gru’s character.

5. Are there any upcoming movies in the Despicable Me franchise?

Despicable Me 4 is set for release in 2024, with no further films officially announced yet.

6. How do the Minions contribute to the overall Despicable Me storyline?

The Minions provide comedic relief and assist Gru in both his villainous and heroic tasks, making them integral to the plot.

7. What language do the Minions speak?

The Minions speak “Minionese,” a playful, nonsensical language that blends multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, and even a few random words. It’s mostly gibberish, with occasional recognizable phrases, designed for comedic effect.

Wrapping Up

The Minions and Despicable Me movies have created a fun and engaging universe that appeals to audiences of all ages. Whether you watch the films in chronological or release order, the journey of Gru, his adopted family, and the hilarious Minions is full of laughter, action, and heartwarming moments. While the main movies tell the core story, the spin-offs and shorts provide extra fun for dedicated fans. With Despicable Me 4 on the horizon, there’s still plenty more to enjoy in this ever-expanding franchise.

No matter how you choose to watch, you’re in for an entertaining ride filled with mischief, humor, and unforgettable characters. Grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the Minions chaos!