The Bad Guys
Parents say
Based on 29 reviews
Kids say
Based on 38 reviews
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The Bad Guys
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Bad Guys is a fun animated comedy heist based on a popular graphic novel series. Delivering a memorable message about the harmful impact of stereotypes, it follows a wolf (voiced by Sam Rockwell), shark (Craig Robinson), piranha (Anthony Ramos), snake (Marc Maron), and tarantula (Awkwafina) who've formed an infamous crime ring. There's cartoon violence -- characters being hit by a car, fighting in self-defense, explosions, etc. -- and momentary peril, but it's largely delivered with a light tone. Characters drink from glasses that look like they might have cocktails in them, and friends exchange insults and use potty words ("butt," "fart," etc.). Over the course of the story, the characters learn that being good means putting others' needs before your own and that positive recognition may follow good deeds; a subplot about sharing is as clear and shiny as a diamond.
Community Reviews
A pleasant surprise
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Really good family movie, even Dad laughed
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What's the Story?
Notorious crime squad THE BAD GUYS have avoided capture for years, becoming the world's most wanted villains in the process. When they're finally caught, Mr. Wolf (voiced by Sam Rockwell) brokers a deal: the Bad Guys will go good in exchange for their freedom. But the crew will have to convince everyone (and themselves) that they really are "good guys," just as a new villain comes to town.
Is It Any Good?
This animated adaptation of Aaron Blabey's beloved Scholastic books revels in bringing a charming, modern take to a very specific idiom: "A wolf in sheep's clothing." Taking an empathetic approach to a crew of thieves who only pretend to "go good," this lighthearted and amusing heist comedy shows that when someone is labeled as "bad," they're likely at some point to start believing it. It's perfect fodder to help explain implicit bias, as well as why labels and stereotypes are problematic. And writer-producer Etan Cohen goes beyond the source material to show that even those who have the appearance of being "good" may need extra scrutiny before receiving our trust -- an equally valuable lesson.
The script has a few issues that may nag at parents, but overall, The Bad Guys is an enjoyable romp that's like Ocean's Eleven for children, and kids won't be hung up on the tiny details. That said, while the ending is responsible and shows that crime doesn't pay, it sure makes crime look cool along the way. This band of thieves doesn't steal out of need but because they're good at it, and it all looks legitimately fun (gentleman thief Mr. Wolf is super cool, so don't be surprised if your kiddo tries to lift something from your purse or pocket to be funny). Let's just hope the message about fighting bias is the movie's lasting influence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why it's harmful to label people. What is a stereotype? Which ones do you think The Bad Guys is trying to show are problematic?
Describe what the terms "bad guy" and "good guy" mean to you. Why did you use those attributes? How do entertainment and media inform the way we think of others?
How do you feel when you help someone or put their needs before your own? Why do you think it feels good to do good?
How do the characters in the movie work as a team?
What is a wolf in sheep's clothing? How is that idea explored in The Bad Guys?
Movie Details
- In theaters: April 22, 2022
- On DVD or streaming: June 21, 2022
- Cast: Sam Rockwell, Awkwafina, Anthony Ramos, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Zazie Beetz
- Director: Pierre Perifel
- Studios: DreamWorks Animation, Universal Pictures
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Adventures, Book Characters, Friendship, Wild Animals
- Character Strengths: Teamwork
- Run time: 100 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG
- MPAA explanation: action and rude humor
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: December 19, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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The Bad Guys Series
Snappy dialogue and irreverent humor in fun graphic novels.
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Zootopia
Charming buddy-animal story promotes teamwork, perseverance.
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Rise of the Guardians
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Fantastic Mr. Fox
Offbeat family adventure may charm adults more than kids.
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Over the Hedge
Cute animated tale with some mild scares, cartoon violence.
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Oliver & Company
Can't compete with Disney classics, but still fun.
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