The Bad Guys 2keeps DreamWorks' strong Rotten Tomatoes streak alive. A sequel to2022’sThe Bad Guys, the upcoming animated heist comedy brings back the Bad Guys who, having a hard time earning trust and fitting into their new roles as Good Guys, are coaxed out of retirement and team up with an all-female crew of criminals for one final heist.
The sequel’s voice cast includes Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, Awkwafina, Zazie Beetz, Richard Ayoade, Lilly Singh, and Alex Borstein reprising their roles from the first film. Oscar nominees Danielle Brooks (The Color Purple), Maria Bakalova (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm), and five-time Emmy nominee Natasha Lyonne (Orange Is the New Black,Russian Doll, andPoker Face) join the cast.
Now, ahead of its theatrical release in just a few days,The Bad Guys 2has debuted with an 86% score from the criticsonRotten Tomatoes. The movie has 36 reviews at the time of writing, so its score is expected to fluctuate as more are published.
The Bad Guys 2keeps the studio’s Rotten Tomatoes streak alive, asDreamWorks' past eight movies, going back to the originalBad Guys(2022), all have Fresh scores, includingDog Man(81%),The Wild Robot(96%),Kung Fu Panda 4(87%),Orion and the Dark(92%),Trolls Band Together(64%),Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken(65%),Puss in Boots: The Last Wish(95%), andThe Bad Guys(88%).
What Are The Reviews Saying?
The Bad Guys 2’s Rotten Tomatoes meansits reviews are mostly positive, with critics praising its vibrant animation, charming ensemble, and energetic humor. Many highlight its improved storytelling, appealing new characters, and adult-friendly jokes that enrich the experience. Many commend the film’s flair for action, with standout performances from Sam Rockwell and Danielle Brooks. Despite familiar themes, its execution keeps things fresh and entertaining.
However,not all reviews are glowing. Some critics find the plot overcrowded, the humor uneven, and the sequel lacking originality. A few lament its overreliance on fart jokes or missed comedic timing. While some reviewers criticize its safe storytelling and muddled messaging, most still acknowledge its visual creativity, brisk pace, and overall value as fun, family-friendly entertainment.
It Bodes Well For The Sequel
WhileThe Bad Guyswasn’t a runaway blockbuster, it performed impressively, earning $250 million globally on a modest budget, markingDreamWorks' biggest hitsinceHow to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World(2019). Critically embraced and commercially solid, it laid a strong foundation. Considering DreamWorks' hot streak andThe Wild Robot’s recent triumph,The Bad Guys 2seems poised to soar.
