Bad Guys sequel delivers more heists
Jason Wright looks at the latest DreamWorks title to hit the big screen
DreamWorks Animation returns to the world of reformed criminals with The Bad Guys 2, following the success of its 2022 predecessor, which grossed over $250 million worldwide. This sequel sees Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Shark, Mr. Piranha, and Ms. Tarantula five years after their transformation into good citizens. They are now striving to integrate into society, seeking legitimate employment and a fresh start.
However, their newfound peace is shattered by the arrival of three new antagonists: The Bad Girls. This trio plans to frame The Bad Guys and expose Diane Foxington’s hidden criminal past as The Crimson Paw. Their leverage forces the former villains into a precarious alliance, as they must help The Bad Girls steal a rocket and launch it into space to execute a scheme involving a magnet to pilfer all the world’s gold. The original film was loosely based on the popular graphic novel series by Aaron Blabey.
The animation style remains a highlight, presenting a visually striking and distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart from many animated features. The characters retain their charm and comedic timing, providing familiar entertainment for fans of the first film. The narrative offers an interesting twist on a classic heist plot, incorporating elements of blackmail that add a layer of originality to the story.
Despite these strengths, The Bad Girls, voiced by new additions to the cast, could have benefited from more development. Their motivations and backstories felt somewhat underdeveloped, leaving the audience with a desire for a deeper understanding of these new characters.
In conclusion, The Bad Guys 2 offers an entertaining experience, even if it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its critically acclaimed predecessor. It’s a solid option for families in Telford looking for a cinematic outing during the school summer holidays. While younger viewers might prefer films like Smurfs, this sequel is well-suited for the 6-13 age group. The film’s score, composed by Daniel Pemberton, also carries over the jazzy, sophisticated tone from the first movie.
Rating: 5.6 out of 10. Not bad, but not as good as the first.
