The Bad Guys 2 Review: DreamWorks’ Criminal Crew Returns in Style

Remember when animated sequels were about as welcome as a warm pint? Well, blow me down if DreamWorks hasn’t only gone and proved us wrong. The Bad Guys 2 isn’t just good – it’s properly brilliant.

A Sequel That Actually Ups the Ante

Let’s be honest – I went into this screening expecting the usual cash-grab sequel nonsense. You know the type: recycled jokes, tired plotlines, and enough eye-rolling moments to give you a headache. But cor blimey, was I in for a surprise!

This time around, everything’s snappier, funnier, and more relaxed than the original. It kicks off with a proper Bond-worthy car chase through Cairo that had me perched on the edge of my seat. Sam Rockwell’s Mr Wolf is channeling such strong George Clooney energy, I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets a bill for royalties in the post.

From Reformed Characters to Reluctant Villains

The story picks up five years after our furry friends went straight (or did they?). Just when they’re settling into their new law-abiding lives, along comes a crafty snow leopard with a frame-up that would make Keyser Sze proud. Add in some “MacGuffinite” – a cheeky nod that’ll have film buffs snorting into their popcorn – and you’ve got yourself a proper caper.

The Return of Professor Marmalade

Speaking of scene-stealers, Richard Ayoade’s Professor Marmalade is back and better than ever. Picture this: a guinea pig with prison tats and a bod that’d make Love Island contestants jealous, all while maintaining that distinctively nasal whine. It’s absolutely genius casting that works even better this time around.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Is The Bad Guys 2 suitable for kids?

While there’s plenty of action and some clever heist elements, it’s perfectly pitched for the family audience. Think more Ocean’s Eleven than The Italian Job – though parents will catch plenty of crafty references to both.

Do I need to have seen the first film?

While it helps to know the characters, the film does a bang-up job of catching you up. You won’t be lost if this is your first rodeo with the gang.

Is it worth seeing in the cinema?

Absolutely! The animation is gorgeous on the big screen, and those action sequences deserve the full cinema treatment.

The Verdict

In a world of disappointing sequels, The Bad Guys 2 stands tall as proof that lightning can strike twice. It’s that rare follow-up that actually improves on the original – funnier, more confident, and packed with enough wit to keep both kids and adults thoroughly entertained.

Have you seen The Bad Guys 2 yet? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to know which character had you howling with laughter!

[Internal links to “Best Animated Films 2025”, “Richard Ayoade Interview”, “DreamWorks Movies Ranked”]
[External links to IMDb page, DreamWorks official site]