DreamWorks Animation hits the mark once again with The Bad Guys 2, opening this Thursday, the 14th. The sequel not only retains the charm of the original film but significantly elevates both its visual and narrative quality. Directed by Pierre Perifel, the movie represents the best of contemporary animation coming out of Hollywood, combining technical sophistication with a genuinely fun story.
The premise is elegantly simple. The anti-heroes face the challenges of their new life as “good guys” until they’re forced back into action by a group of villains. What could have been just another commercial sequel becomes an intelligent narrative. After all, the story works both as an adventure movie and as a tale of friendship and redemption.
The plot flows with the precision of a classic heist film, with touches of Steven Soderbergh. There are well-constructed twists and a pace that keeps both kids and adults fully engaged. The main characters – Wolf, Snake, Shark, Piranha, and Tarantula – remain charismatic and well-developed, each contributing uniquely to the group’s dynamic.
The Bad Guys 2 and the visual revolution
The film’s biggest highlight is its revolutionary visual approach. It completely abandons the “safe” and monochromatic aesthetic that dominates many current productions. Instead, it opts for a rich and diverse color palette that surprises in every scene. The blend of 2D and 3D elements—especially in action sequences with onomatopoeias and multicolored explosions—creates a truly unique visual experience.
This bold aesthetic choice shows the studio’s commitment to innovation and genuinely sets a new standard for animated films. Every frame is carefully crafted, resulting in a work that is both a visual feast and a solid story.
Narrative intelligence
One of The Bad Guys 2’s greatest strengths is its refusal to underestimate its audience. The screenplay layers humor that works on multiple levels, offering subtle jokes for adults without compromising the fun for kids. This respectful approach to viewers demonstrates creative maturity and contributes to a richer cinematic experience.
The narrative explores complex themes like identity, belonging, and personal change in an accessible way, without resorting to simplistic moralizing. The result is a movie that entertains but also provides substance for reflection.
The Bad Guys 2 sets a new benchmark for animation in 2025, standing out as a bold and innovative work. With its mix of technical excellence, smart storytelling, and respect for its audience, the film confirms that DreamWorks remains at the forefront of American animation—leaving competitors, especially Disney, far behind.
