Discover the new characters joining Gru’s chaotic adventures in “Despicable Me 4”

IT’S been seven years since the last “Despicable Me” movie graced theaters. So, what has everyone’s favorite villain-turned Anti-Villain League (AVL) agent been up to?

In this eagerly awaited “Despicable Me 4,” Gru (Steve Carell) faces a whirlwind of changes. With the arrival of his and Lucy’s (Kristen Wiig) new baby, Gru’s life expands into that of a father of four and a committed AVL agent. While on a mission with the fan-favorite Minions, Gru encounters the villain Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, forcing the family to go on the run.

Let’s dive into the new characters making waves in “Despicable Me 4”

Maxime Le Mal, voiced by Emmy winner Will Ferrell (“Anchorman,” “The Lego Movie”), is Gru’s high school nemesis. After Gru embarrasses Maxime by having him arrested at their class reunion for Lycee Pas Bon School of Villainy, Maxime’s grudge turns into an all-consuming vendetta. Escaping from prison, he relentlessly pursues Gru and his family, determined to settle the score.

Ferrell relished the chance to clash with Steve Carell’s Gru. “Who wouldn’t want to be part of the ‘Despicable Me’ universe?” Ferrell remarks. “Maxime is a blend of suave sophistication and deep-seated insecurity, creating a villain you love to hate, but also kinda feel sorry for. It was incredibly fun to explore that balance.”

Valentina, voiced by Emmy nominee Sofía Vergara (“Modern Family”), was the most popular femme fatale at Lycee Pas Bon School of Villainy and is now Maxime’s girlfriend and pilot of his giant ship. “I was drawn to Valentina’s confidence and allure,” Vergara shares. “She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it, no matter the obstacles. Finding her fierce determination and softer, vulnerable moments was a creative challenge I enjoyed.”

To protect Gru from Le Mal’s wrath, the AVL relocates Gru and his family to the quaint town of Mayflower under new identities. Poppy Prescott, voiced by Joey King (“Bullet Train,” “The Kissing Booth”), is Gru’s new teenage neighbor with dreams of becoming a supervillain. Obsessed with all things villainous, Poppy blackmails Gru into helping her pull a heist at Lycee Pas Bon School of Villainy.

King loved the voice-over freedom. “I adore playing Poppy! Adding a cute little lisp made her even more fun and memorable. It’s all about unleashing creativity without worrying about appearances.”

Perry Prescott, voiced by Emmy winner Stephen Colbert (“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”), is Poppy’s father and Gru’s new neighbor. As the face of Prescott Motors, Perry exudes confidence with a touch of arrogance. “Perry is loosely based on every ’80s teen comedy villain,” Colbert jokes. “I channeled my own pretentiousness to bring Perry to life.”

Patsy Prescott, played by Chloe Fineman (“Saturday Night Live”), is Perry’s wife and Poppy’s mother. As a Mayflower socialite, Patsy balances suburban charm with sophistication. “Patsy is a delightful character with layers of complexity,” Fineman explains. “Exploring her dynamic with her husband and her role in the community was fascinating.”

Back at AVL Headquarters, some Minions receive a super serum, transforming into the world’s newest chaotic superheroes: the Mega Minions (all voiced by Pierre Coffin, the Minions’ co-creator). Mega Dave boasts super strength, Mega Tim stretches over a mile long, Mega Mel unleashes a powerful laser blast, Mega Gus can fly, and Mega Jerry becomes an indestructible boulder.

Director Chris Renaud states, “Their powers are rooted in classic superhero tropes for instant recognition. We crafted a narrative arc that allowed them moments of unexpected heroism.”

Packed with non-stop action and Illumination’s signature subversive humor, “Despicable Me 4” opens in Philippine cinemas today, July 3. #DespicableMe4PH

(ROHN ROMULO)