Common Sense Media Review
By Sandie Angulo Chen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny sequel mixes action, heart, and a bit of violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Bad Guys 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 23 parent reviews
Parents say this movie is enjoyable and features fun action scenes, making it a hit for kids at least 6 or 7. However, many parents are concerned about the inappropriate language and sexual innuendos, believing the film is not suitable for young children despite its rating, leading to mixed feelings about its overall quality as a sequel.
- fun and enjoyable
- inappropriate language
- sexual innuendos
- mixed reviews
- parental concerns
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 14 kid reviews
Kids say the movie is a fun and entertaining sequel with notable humor and engaging animation, but it contains several adult themes and language that may not be suitable for younger viewers. While many find it enjoyable for older kids and teens, parents are advised to be cautious due to the inclusion of sexual innuendos and mild violence.
- humor and animation
- adult themes
- suitable for older kids
- parental caution
- enjoyable sequel
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In THE BAD GUYS 2, the reformed Bad Guys crew of animal criminals—Wolf (voiced by Sam Rockwell), Shark (Craig Robinson), Piranha (Anthony Ramos), Snake (Marc Maron), and Tarantula (Awkwafina)—are struggling with life on the straight and narrow. They can't find jobs because of their criminal records and are living with limited means. When a thief pulls a job using the crew's signature style, framing them, everyone except their friend Governor Foxington (Zazie Beetz) believes that they're back to being bad. To remind everyone they're now good guys, Wolf and his pals decide to help local law enforcement solve the crime spree—except their help puts them in the path of a new crew of master criminals who demand help from the Bad Guys. As the original group is pulled back into the world of heists and high-stakes missions, they must navigate old temptations and unexpected betrayals.
Is It Any Good?
This funny, crowd-pleasing action-adventure builds on the themes that fans love in both the original film and the source books. As in the last movie, the stylish animation and zippy pacing in The Bad Guys 2 bring the graphic novel-inspired world to life, with clever action sequences, comedic banter, and plenty of twists. While the returning crew's existential crisis (Is it better to do what's right but struggle, or to be "bad" but successful?) is the prominent theme, the subplots also connect to the messages of second chances and teamwork. The movie's big new heist is reminiscent of an ambitious Despicable Me supervillain scheme, and the screenplay offers an abundance of silly bathroom humor for little (and not-so-little) ones to laugh at (for example, Piranha gets hilariously gassy every time he's nervous).
The returning ensemble cast is impressive, and there are also some amusing new characters. Natasha Lyonne lends her signature raspy tones to Snake's enthusiastic bird girlfriend, Doom, who brings comic relief. And Danielle Brooks is a scene-stealer as the cunning new villain, Kitty Kat, whose intimidating personality and sharp wit make her an ideal foil for Wolf. Thanks to its snappy dialogue, visual gags, and genuine emotional beats, The Bad Guys 2 proves that this series has plenty of life in it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why the characters in The Bad Guys 2 want to change their ways. What does the movie say about second chances?
If you've read the graphic novels, how does the movie compare? What's similar or different?
How do the characters show teamwork and trust? Why is that important to the story?
What did you think of the humor in the movie? Which jokes stood out to you?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 1, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : August 19, 2025
- Cast : Sam Rockwell , Marc Maron , Craig Robinson , Awkwafina
- Directors : Pierre Perifel , JP Sans
- Inclusion Information : Latino Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Universal Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Animals ( Wild Animals ) , Book Characters , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Integrity , Self-control , Teamwork
- Run time : 104 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action/mild violence, rude humor and language
- Awards : Common Sense Selection , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : January 17, 2026
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