⭐️⭐️⭐⭐✨ 4.5
A children’s film that is beautifully written, story-driven and backed by a budget that truly brings it to life.
I expected this British-made film to be enjoyable, but I completely underestimated just how good it would be. Emma Thompson and Hugh Jackman both star, but it is Nicholas Braun who really stands out as the lead (Police officer). Watching him, I knew he looked familiar but could not immediately place him, before realising he is from the HBO series Succession.
The entire cast is excellent, with several familiar names voicing the sheep, including Patrick Stewart. The animals are brought to life through fantastic CGI, supported by what must have been a massive budget.
Although aimed at children, this is not a film that underestimates its audience. The storytelling is intelligent throughout, building towards an excellent reveal at the end that feels both logical and satisfying. The film also deals with themes of loss in a thoughtful and sensitive way.
The humour is light, warm and consistently entertaining, with plenty of moments that genuinely amused the audience. This is very much a family film that can be enjoyed by viewers of any age.
If you get the chance to watch it, I would highly recommend doing so. As an Amazon film, I suspect it will be available to stream fairly soon.
The Sheep Detectives is a family mystery-comedy based on the novel Three Bags Full by Leonie Swann.
The film follows a kind shepherd named George, played by Hugh Jackman, who spends his evenings reading detective stories to his flock of sheep, never realising they understand every word. When George is suddenly found dead under suspicious circumstances, the sheep become convinced he has been murdered. Inspired by all the crime novels they have heard, they set out to solve the mystery themselves.
Led by clever ewe Lily and aided by a group of quirky sheep with very different personalities, the flock investigates the humans in their rural village while trying to understand grief, memory, and danger for the first time. The story mixes cosy British whodunnit vibes with humour, emotional moments, and surprisingly dark themes beneath the fluffy surface.
Online synopsis
Film Rating
Music
3 out of 5 (mainly instrumental)
Story/plot
5 out of 5
Acting/Performances
5 out of 5
Overall
4.5 out of 5
Certification: PG
Running time: 109 minutes
Screening type: 2D
Leave a Reply