When tragedy strikes, and George is found dead one morning, his flock springs into action to find the killer in the new film “The Sheep Detectives”.
The voice talents of Brett Goldstein, Patrick Stewart, Regina Hall, Bella Ramsey, Chris O’Dowd, Rhys Darby, Bryan Cranston, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus add to the live-action cast and make this a charming film that all ages can enjoy.
The list of suspects and possible motivations is long as the mystery unfolds, and the arrival of unexpected characters and other elements only adds to the mystery. The flock must also contend with their own dynamic and struggles as some have never left the farm nor have a concept of death as they believe that they all become clouds in the end.
While some of the subject matter is a bit deeper and darker than one would expect in a family film, the movie handles it in an honest and effective way without playing down to the younger audience and being effective while not manipulating. The sheep may be CGI creations but you soon accept them and their situation, and they do evoke emotional responses frequently.
While the flock looks to narrow down the list of suspects, the changing motives, clues, and suspects weave a story that will keep the audience engaged. Parents will want to be cautious, as there are some areas that might be a bit intense and unsettling for younger viewers.
The film does drag a bit in the third act and does take a bit of a leap of faith with the final conclusion, as one could easily say why didn’t x do y, and then it is all circumstantial. However, one must accept that this is a family movie that offers up plenty for the younger viewers while providing an emotional and enjoyable mystery adventure for the adults.
4 stars out of 5
Be First to Comment