Since 2010, The Despicable Me franchise has been beloved by countless children and their families. What kid doesn't love minions, right? Although the movies are very popular with children, it's still understandable that parents would want to know Despicable Me 3's official Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) rating before showing it to their youngest kids. So, is Despicable Me 3 appropriate for kids under 10?
According to Variety, Despicable Me 3 scored a kid-friendly PG rating. The PG rating stands for "Parental Guidance," as some of the content might not be "suitable" for kids, according to ThoughtCo.com. As for why Despicable Me 3 earned a PG rating, it was cited as having "action and rude humor," according to ParentPreviews.com. It's important to note, however, that both Despicable Me and Despicable Me 2 also scored PG ratings, according to Common Sense Media.
That being said, a PG rating isn't a clear and definitive standard for parents. A PG rating is open for interpretation and relies on each parent's discretion. It's also important to consider that each child is unique and approaches content differently. If you have concerns about a PG rating, HealthyChildren.org suggests seeing the movie first before you take your children to see it.
MPAA ratings aside, Despicable Me 3 is getting great reviews. Scott Mendelson, a contributor for Forbes, took his own kids to see the movie. In Mendelson's review, he said the film kept "big smiles" on his kids' faces from "beginning to end."
Mendelson's positive review is also backed up by the movie's 62-percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. For those not in the know about Rotten Tomatoes, a 62-percent rating means the film is "certified fresh." To be "fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes is a good thing, by the way.
In Entertainment Weekly's review of Despicable Me 3, contributor Leah Greenblatt wrote:
What shines through is the visual wit and innate sweetness of the storytelling, and Carell’s cackling, cueball-skulled misanthrope — a (mostly) reformed scoundrel who can still have his cake, and arsenic too.
Considering Greenblatt described the film as having an "innate sweetness," it bodes well for parents who remain on the fence about its PG rating.
In addition to some positive reviews, kids won't want to miss Despicable Me 3's end credits song, "Yellow Light." Not only is the song super catchy, but it's sung by "Happy" singer Pharrell Williams.
Overall, Despicable Me 3 seems to be a safe bet for kids under 10. Although it's ultimately up to parents to make an informed decision about the film's PG rating, it's probably OK for younger kids to see this movie when it premieres on June 30.
