The Bad Guys 2 – Wolf And The Gang Are Back

By: Russ Matthews

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (OUT OF 5)

Aaron Blabey’s book series is a worldwide sensation, and it is no wonder that Dreamworks continues to invest in this animated franchise. Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Awkwafina, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, and Zazie Beetz are back to voice the anthropomorphic animal gang of villains who have now become the good guys, but find it hard to brush off the label, The Bad Guys. 

Wolf (Rockwell) and the team have served their time in jail and are doing their best to reintegrate into society. Yet, they are struggling to find work, and the group seems to be pulling apart as Snake (Maron)spends more time away. Diane (Beetz) continues to govern the city as a popular governor while maintaining her secret identity as the Crimson Paw, keeping it hidden from the public. As she and Wolf try to navigate their relationship, recently promoted Commissioner Luggins (Alex Borstein) is trying to track down a new villain called the Phantom Bandit, who has a curiously similar modus operandi (MO) to The Bad Guys. As Wolf and the gang attempt to help the Commissioner apprehend this new group of thieves, they are eventually captured and coerced into supporting a new crime gang named the Bad Girls, led by a snow leopard named Kitty Kat (Danielle Brooks).

This second chapter from director Pierre Perifel offers something fresh to families in the world of animation. Great characters that deliver comedic elements for both children and parents, with adventures that impart life lessons through creative animated methods. Sitting in a theatre and hearing parents laugh along with their children through the movie adds to the excitement that a story like this provides. As the story unfolds, it pays homage to classic films and franchises that will keep the movie enthusiast engaged, along with the charismatic chemistry that this well-cast team delivers throughout the unbelievable escapades. The beauty of animation is that it allows the story to reach ridiculous levels, and all feels right with these unlikely heroes doing their best to make things right in the world. 

The Bad Guys is one to see in cinemas and is suitable for the whole family to enjoy. As this franchise progresses, characters are developed, and the story remains engaging for both parents and children. Who would have thought we would all be cheering for the Bad Guys one day, but all you will be for this motley crew to steal your hearts once again with their next adventure.

What Will Parents Be Talking About After Seeing The Bad Guys?

Aaron Blabey’s stories tap into a plethora of talking points in the family car after leaving the cinema. Redemption is a theme worth exploring with the kids as Wolf and the gang strive to do the right thing, despite society struggling to see them as anything but bad. This should lead to distinguishing between right and wrong. This series occasionally blurs the lines, but ultimately makes a clear distinction in morality. There’s even room for discussion about how friendship, loyalty and love factor into life and how we all need each other to survive in this world. Enjoy the movie, support projects like this in theatres to ensure they continue to offer families something to enjoy together.