Disclaimer: I’m a blind film critic. May the force be with me.

I have to admit that the simple announcement of a sequel to The Bad guys felt more like an exploration of intellectual property prowess than one of actual creative strength. Not everything needs to be a franchise, and the Bad Guys 2, which takes the road most obvious is undoubtedly proof that the second time around is often just one more lap around a block you’ve already seen.

The film brings the original crew back from the first film, and tries to throw conflict in as the Bad Guys are now heroes, and yet someone is using their old calling card to commit crimes. the problem is that it becomes pretty obvious where this is headed, based on simple new cast additions backed by well known actors. then I realized that the plot is so similar to other films, which have introduced a similar foe in the sequel, often with a tiny deviation. For example, Alvin and the Chipmunks just added the Chipettes in the sequel. It was following what the cartoon had done, but it also didn’t really forge new territory. It just told the same story, again.

And without spoiling The Bad Guys 2, it does a lot of the same things. While I have yet to review Zootopia 2, I have seen it as of this writing, and it is a sequel that actually builds on the concept and lore of the first film, feeling unique and complimentary in its own right. the Bad Guys 2 is just hoping you liked the first film enough to go back down the same path. Dreamworks Animation has stumbled before with sequel choices, or an inability to know just how many Shrek and Madagascar films the world needed. But, they also seemed to land Puss In Boots: the Last Wish, as well as Shrek 2 years ago, which might actually be better than the first.

Considering the Dreamworks slate this year was this, Gabby’s Dollhouse, and Dog Man, it’s safe to hope for better things in 2026.I was not enthused by The Bad Guys 2, and waited for Peacock. I’m glad I did. I still don’t understand why some of the characters are named by the animal they are, and others have names. is he the only wolf left?

the audio description was fine, and since this is a kids film, the real measure is whether or not your kids will be entertained. Honestly, the new series on Netflix featuring the Bad Guys is more interesting. this just never worked for me.

The Bad Guys are back. I’m also perfectly fine if they chose to go away.

Rotten: 5.6/10