Universal Sets Release Date for 'Despicable Me' Spin-Off Project

Universal Pictures announced Tuesday that its Untitled Minions Project, a spin-off from its successful Despicable Me franchise, will be released Dec. 19, 2014.

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Despicable Me, from Illumination Entertainment, grossed $543 million worldwide when it was released in 2010, and a sequel Despicable Me 2 will hit theaters next summer on July 3, 2013.

Although a plot line hasn't been revealed for the spin-off movie, it will focus on the little yellow creatures that have proven so popular. 

The 3D-CG comedy adventure will be produced by Illumination’s Chris Meledandri and Janet Healy and will be directed by Pierre Coffin. Brian Lynch has written the screenplay, which will be co-directed by Kyle Balda. Chris Renaud will serve as executive producer.