By Maria Boyle
Based on the book ‘Three Bags Full’, ‘The Sheep Detectives’ is an original, clever, engaging and fun to watch mystery directed by Kyle Balda, who also directed ‘The Minions’.
The story starts when George, a shepherd played by Hugh Jackman, is found murdered in his field. When he was alive, George read mystery books to his sheep every night, so after his death the flock decides to use their detective skills to find out who killed him before the human police do.
The wittiness of what the sheep do and say, in their characters and even voices, is highly praiseworthy, making me actually laugh out loud at moments.
The human comedy is amazing, and the murderer is very unexpected. The audience themselves are given all the clues, but until the end, do not realise it, and the solution all makes sense, like puzzle pieces fitting together – it is overall a very satisfying film to watch.
Sometimes it feels like the film’s character is split, unable to decide what genre it really is, zigzagging between silly comedy and depressing reflections on mortality, but generally it smoothly blends them, making it suitable for old and young, thoughtful in philosophical truths on life, death and God, yet lighthearted at the same time. This is amazing – something very rarely seen in children’s films, or even any type of film.
If it didn’t create so many spoilers, I’d be able to go on for at least 20 pages more in praise (but I won’t).
I wouldn’t recommend this for younger children – it has some intense scenes featuring grief, animal slaughter, terrifying chases, creepy Shetland sheep and death, but I’d say that from 8 up it’s suitable (with parental guidance).
Despite all that, it leaves you exiting the cinema with a very nice feeling, changing your view of the world slightly, making you appreciate every little moment more, its pleasant message lingering in your mind.
Whatever genre of film you’re interested in, whether it’s comedy, action, crime, adventure, drama, thriller, romance (here’s a clue – the policeman and the unexpected guest), fantasy, mystery, then this film is certainly for you.