Minions & Monsters: Everything You Need to Know About the New Minions Movie!
When Is the Movie Set? And Where Are Kevin, Stuart, and Bob?
A new "Minions" movie is coming! "Minions & Monsters" expands the world of the beloved yellow characters. The first trailer was finally released during Super Bowl 2026 – but it left some fans confused. Where are Kevin, Stuart, and Bob? Who are the new Minions? And when does the movie take place?
When does Minions & Monsters take place?
The most important information: "Minions & Monsters" is a prequel / spin-off. As a reminder, apart from the prologue, the plot of the first film begins in the 1960s. The story of the new film is set in the 1920s instead. The Minions make a Hollywood movie and become stars – but in the process, they also unleash monsters on the world.
Where are Kevin, Stuart, and Bob?
The time period of the story also answers the question of where Kevin, Stuart, and Bob are. The three characters have been the main focus of the previous "Minions" films. However, we know from the first part of the series that they are in an ice cave from 1812 to 1968. Therefore, Kevin, Stuart, and Bob are unlikely to play a role in "Minions & Monsters". Instead, completely new characters take center stage.
Aren't all the Minions in the ice cave?
But that leads us to the next question: Shouldn't all the Minions be in the ice cave? Until now, that's what we assumed. But the trailer for "Minions & Monsters" proves the opposite. Perhaps not all the Minions migrated to the ice cave back then. Or maybe the new Minions are a completely different group of Minions. One possible indication of this is that the trailer shows the first Minion with blue eyes.
Perhaps the film will provide definitive answers to some fan questions – or maybe the next trailer will. As soon as it's available, you'll find it in the KinoCheck app and on our YouTube channel. You can see "Minions & Monsters" in theaters starting July 1, 2026.
The Minions phenomenon
This summer, the chaotic little helpers will return to the big screen, proving that the universe created by Illumination Entertainment around Gru and his Minions has long since become one of the most successful animation franchises of our time.
The beginning: Despicable Me
It all started in 2010 with "Despicable Me". At the center of the story is supervillain Gru, who wants to steal the moon – and in doing so, unwittingly adopts three orphan girls. The series quickly developed into a heartwarming family story with anarchic humor. The three subsequent films continued to build on this recipe for success: fast pace, slapstick, catchy pop songs, and interesting characters. Gru, in particular, transformed from an egomaniacal villain into a lovable father figure. However, the highlight of the series always remained another element: the Minions.
The supporting characters who took over
What was originally intended as a comical sidekick developed into the actual trademark. The yellow, linguistically creative creatures of chaos, with their mixture of gibberish and physical slapstick, became meme generators, merchandising engines, and pop culture icons.
In 2015, they got their first spin-off with "Minions" – a prequel that told the story of their millennia-long search for the "greatest villain". This was followed in 2022 by another film, "Minions: The Rise of Gru". By this point, it had become clear that the Minions work independently of Gru. Their humor is universally understandable, low on dialogue, and visually strong – perfect for an international audience.
What makes the Minions movies special
The "Despicable Me" franchise is now one of the most successful animated series of all time. It combines several elements, including the high recognition value of the Minions. The series also offers family-friendly humor that appeals to both children and adults. The humor is silly and often over-the-top.
Unlike many animated films that rely heavily on individual stars or special stories, this universe thrives on simplicity and pace. The Minions do not speak a clearly defined language – and that is precisely why they are understandable everywhere. Slapstick knows no cultural barriers.
Minions & Monsters as the next stage of evolution
With "Minions & Monsters", the franchise seems to be taking a new direction. The first trailer hints at a stronger mix of genres – horror references, monster parodies, and a play on classic movie quotes. The world of the Minions is expanding: new settings, new characters, and new gags. Fans are eagerly awaiting what awaits them in the summer of 2026.