A villain turned good? Remember Gru? It may not be new, but The Bad Guys can present it with a unique story. The Bad Guys is a film directed by Pierre Perifel, whose story is adapted from the graphic novel of the same name by Aaron Blabey. The characters’ voice actors are famous names, Sam Rockwell, Awkwafina, Craig Robinson, and Zazie Beetz. Can this Dreamworks Animation production compete with quality films from previous productions, such as the Kung-fu Panda series and How to Train Your Dragon?
In a world where humans and animals mingle, a criminal group led by Mr. Wolf (Rockwell) is feared for their reputation. In one of their biggest heists, Mr. Wolf experiences a strange sensation when he helps an older woman. His tail is wagging, a sign of his happy heart. The robbery failed, but town celebrity Prof. Marmalade gave them a second chance to change their evil nature into good. Behind it all, there is a big scenario to trap them.
Of course, this is not a new story concept for those who have watched the Despicable Me series. In The Bad Guys, it’s a group, not just one character. It is this collective connection that makes the story unique. Of course, the dominance of humor is present throughout the story with all the silliness of the characters. The close relationship between them can also be played well through small surprises at some moments. Overall there is nothing new in the story other than entertaining actions leading up to and at the climax. The ending is not hard to predict, but the message is quite touching.
A story perspective via a group of unique “protagonists,” The Bad Guys is entertaining and has enough message for its target. This film is indeed not at the level of the studio’s best work; it’s just that its message about doing good cannot be underestimated. A bad person is not necessarily a bad person, and a person who looks good is not necessarily good. Sincerity will never deceive forever. The Bad Guys is a great show for families for light and entertaining viewing.
On one small note, there is something unusual when watching movies in the All Ages (SU) category. Where many audiences are children in the studio, but the promo trailer that is playing is a horror film that is very inappropriate for children to watch. Maybe they will remember this more than the film.
