Villains Incorporated 2024 Movie Review Trailer

Villains Inc. has three credited writers. There's director Jeremy Warner, Jason Gray and Matt Moen. The comedy is about three henchmen whose super-powered boss is murdered, and they must navigate life outside of serving an evil overlord. This is an ambitious elevator pitch for an independent production. Is this a case of too many cooks in the kitchen or are the filmmakers rising to the occasion?

Beatrix (Mallory Everton), Cain (Jason Gray) and Harold (Colin Mochrie) have been working together for quite some time. But they accidentally kill their last boss, Winter General, just before he finally took out Captain Justice (Trey Warner). Now, the henchmen are misguided but, more importantly, they are short of money. To make ends meet, Beatrix decides to go to supervillain trials. If she succeeds, there is a cash prize. If she fails, she dies.

Director: Jeremy Warner

Writers: Jason Gray, Matt Moen, Jeremy Warner

Stars: Mallory Everton, Colin Mochrie, Jason Gray

Meanwhile, Cain and Harold take Alex (Billy Mann) under their wing after semi-rescuing him from Megadeath (Matthew Meese). Not that Alex would notice that, since his Stockholm Syndrome is high. However, Alex is an aspiring inventor and his project could give Beatrix, Cain and Harold a means to make money.

Villains Inc. is a lovely little film, but it feels like too many at once. Is it a comical slice of life for friends who feel adrift after losing their jobs? Is it about three friends trying to make their shared dream come true? Is it a parody of superhero tropes? Is this a world where superpowers are a human right? Is it a parody of consumerism and corporations that control people? Is it about a brilliant but reckless young inventor finding his place? The film addresses all of these themes, although the only ones that are explored in depth are the consumerism angle and the friendship between Beatrix, Cain and Harold. Still, the corporate part comes relatively late, but is handled quite well and with humor.

What really elevates the narrative are the comedic gems scattered throughout, brought to life by the talented cast. This is one of those features where the individual sequences shine brighter than the overall plot. The central trio's hilarious discussions of the “Killer Pet Company” and its potential use to eliminate pet owners are a prime example. 

While this idea is revisited several times, it does not drive the narrative. Alex's various quirks provide comic relief, and his abandonment issues lead to a running gag. The world-building may be questionable, but the way the company director plays both sides is a brilliantly fun touch.

However, what really solidifies Villains Inc. as a film worth watching is the exceptional cast. Everton's comedic prowess is on full display and guarantees plenty of laughs. His unexpected depth in handling dramatic scenes is a pleasant surprise. 

Mochrie's physical comedy skills remain as sharp as ever, leaving the audience in stitches when he is under control. Gray's role as host, a little more headstrong than Harold and more nervous than Beatrix, keeps the trio together. Their chemistry is palpable and is the title's strongest selling point.

While Villains Inc. is packed with ideas and stories, it's a fun, fun ride that's worth your time. The cast, led by the ever-capable Everton, is a shining example of comedic talent. Each actor's impeccable timing and fluid interaction with each other creates an enchanting viewing experience. It is a film that you can enjoy in the background, looking for the best moments and paying only half your attention to the rest.

Watch Villains Incorporated 2024 Movie Trailer