2022---the-minions-2--james-bond--jaws--bruce-lee----winks-not-to-be-missed- -

The 1970s flavoring doesn't stop there. Sharp-eyed viewers can also spot:

The most visually striking "wink" is the film's extensive tribute to martial arts legend Bruce Lee . The 1970s flavoring doesn't stop there

When Minions: The Rise of Gru (often called Minions 2 ) hit theaters in 2022, it didn't just bring back the chaotic yellow henchmen; it delivered a masterclass in 1970s nostalgia. Beyond the slapstick humor, the film is packed with "winks"—clever cinematic references and Easter eggs—that pay homage to some of the biggest icons of the era: James Bond, Jaws , and Bruce Lee. The 007 Influence: A James Bond Opening Beyond the slapstick humor, the film is packed

: The Illumination logo itself gets a makeover, featuring a Minion riding a disco wrecking ball , immediately signaling the film's funky 70s energy. : During their kung fu training in San

: A callback to the original Despicable Me , where the bank's subtitle "Formerly Lehman Brothers" was a sharp jab at real-world financial history.

: During their kung fu training in San Francisco's Chinatown, the Minions—Kevin, Stuart, and Bob—don bright yellow tracksuits . This is a direct reference to the iconic outfit Bruce Lee wore in Game of Death .

One of the most immediate nods is the film's opening sequence. Director Kyle Balda revealed that the team considered several styles, including a Brady Bunch grid, but ultimately opted for a classic . The sequence features the signature silhouettes and psychedelic visuals synonymous with the 007 franchise, setting a tone of high-stakes (and high-humor) villainy right from the start. Terror in the Theater: The Jaws Shout-out