Hugh Jackman leads the charge in this delightful, Babe-style feelgood family film, where plucky sheep take center stage to solve a murder. Imagine a murder mystery that elegantly blends the heartwarming essence of “Babe” with the clever deductions of “The Thursday Murder Club,” but with a decidedly woolly twist. Instead of seasoned retirees, we have sheep as our unlikely sleuths.
While the premise might initially seem unusual, perhaps even reminiscent of “Watership Down” for some, the film ultimately unfolds into a sweet-natured family comedy. The presence of a sharp and amusing cameo from Emma Thompson further enhances the viewing experience.
Adapted from the bestselling novel “Three Bags Full” by German crime author Leonie Swann, the screenplay is penned by Craig Mazin. The film is skillfully directed by Kyle Balda, a veteran of the “Despicable Me” franchise, who masterfully navigates a vibrant cast of live-action stars and meticulously crafted digital sheep.
The story is set in the picturesque English village of Denbrook, bathed in what appears to be digitally enhanced Californian sunshine. Here, Hugh Jackman portrays George Hardy, a shepherd who resides in a quintessentially American-looking stainless steel trailer amidst his fields. George’s unique approach to flock management bypasses the conventional sheepdog, relying instead on an intuitive connection he shares with each of his animals. His sole focus is on raising sheep for their wool, a stark contrast to the local agribusiness enthusiasts who harbor ambitions for his land.