TV Film of the Week: Despicable Me

ITV: Saturday 18th January – 5.20pm

When Despicable Me 2 hit cinemas last summer, it did so to rave reviews and outstanding box office success; takings approaching almost $1billion worldwide stood testament to a writing team that managed to tick every box on the checklist for animation sequels. The second installment developed the beloved characters of the original while successfully integrating new ones, including a love interest, it also broadened its scale and kept the jokes fresh. Most shrewdly though, it brought the Minions, the scene stealing supporting cast of the first chapter to the forefront, upping the laughs and creating a strikingly different feel the second time out.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

Considering that the literary character has become part of the fabric of modern pop culture, it is perhaps surprising that 66 years have passed since Walter Mitty last graced the big screen. Ben Stiller obviously thought the gap too long, having chosen to produce, direct and star in this contemporary take on the tale.