The Return of the Bad Guys: A Fun Family Film Review

Someone alert the authorities; the Bad Guys are back! Well, more importantly, I’m back with another review, and this past weekend I had the privilege of pre-screening Bad Guys 2! 

Everyone’s favorite felons are back, and this time, they’ve got company. In the new action-packed chapter from DreamWorks Animation’s acclaimed comedy smash about a crackerjack crew of animal outlaws, our now-reformed Bad Guys are trying their best to be good, but instead find themselves hijacked into a high-stakes, globe-trotting heist, masterminded by a new team of criminals they never saw coming: The Bad Girls. And I must admit, I’m a fan of the new girls on the scene. 

This one is for the children. Although I enjoyed the film and embraced my inner child, it was a treat to hear the children in the theatre lose their minds with excitement throughout the movie. The comedic elements, music, action, and a touch of adult humor kept me engaged and curious about how things would work out for our new reformed criminals. 

“Life is like a car chase; there will be some bumps in the road.”

Like all great movies, there’s a message to be taken away from the film. Bad Guys 2 is no exception! I enjoyed watching the subtle encouragement of STEM for the children and watching the badass girls utilize their knowledge for a larger plan. Although it was not a good use of intellect and skills, I respected it and understood the why. Most “villains’” origin story stems from one point in their life being misunderstood. Obviously, I can relate to that feeling. Everyone has a desire to be respected and understood, in one form or another; the movie illustrates the different paths people can choose to obtain that goal. It all comes down to life choices and knowing that it’s hard to change a reputation once it is developed. 

“Respect is earned!” 

I’m a firm believer in second chances and enjoy watching how staying consistent towards a goal will lead to greatness; it’s a matter of patience and a shift of perspective. Well, complete transparency, the movie ending would have been a win-win for me, I was rooting for our new heroes and the bad girls on the scene, and I understood both perspectives. But you will have to go check out the movie and decide for yourself. Life is filled with trials and tribulations, and it’s up to us to make the most out of our time on this Earth. This film served as a gentle reminder of my purpose: being misunderstood can be a powerful motivator to strive for improvement and use your experiences for good. 

Let me know what y’all took away from Bad Guys 2, which will be released in theaters on Friday, August 1, 2025!