Name: The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Family, Action
Released: 2023-11-29T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Michael Godere, Ezekiel Ajeigbe, Raul Ceballos, Chris Diamantopoulos, Mallory Low

The opening shot of The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday is a chaotic, vibrant parade, where our titular animal outlaws accidentally destroy the city’s beloved Santa Claus balloon. It’s a moment that sets the tone for this holiday special: fast-paced, visually dynamic, but ultimately lacking the charm and wit of its predecessor.

Directed by Bret Haaland, this 2023 Netflix special is a prequel to DreamWorks’ 2022 hit The Bad Guys, based on the graphic novel series. The voice cast has been recast, with Michael Godere taking over as Mr. Wolf and Ezekiel Ajeigbe as Mr. Shark among others. While the new cast delivers competent performances, they struggle to capture the unique chemistry that made the original film’s ensemble so engaging.

The story revolves around the Bad Guys trying to save Christmas after their accidental balloon destruction sours the city’s holiday spirit. It’s a premise ripe with potential for humor and heart, but the execution falls flat in several areas. The plot is predictable, relying heavily on familiar tropes like the redemption arc and last-minute saves. The pacing feels rushed, with scenes often cutting away just as they start to build momentum.

Visually, the special struggles to match the original film’s vibrant animation style. The action is constant, but it often feels stiff and uninspired, particularly in comparison to the first movie’s bouncy, dynamic sequences. The sound design and score try to compensate with upbeat holiday tunes, but even these feel repetitive after a while.

Where the special does shine is in its commitment to the source material’s themes of redemption and found family. Mr. Wolf’s admission that he was trying to give his crew the best heist ever, rather than show off, adds a touch of sincerity to an otherwise formulaic plot. The Santa Claus exoskeleton also serves as a fun visual gag, even if its resolution feels abrupt.

However, these bright spots are not enough to salvage the overall lackluster experience. The humor is hit-or-miss, and many jokes fall flat or feel forced. The special’s attempts at heartfelt moments often come across as cloying rather than genuine.

In the end, The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday is a missed opportunity. It has the potential to be a delightful holiday treat but ultimately feels like a rushed, uninspired cash grab.