KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 — At a time when explosive action spectacles and franchise blockbusters dominate cinema screens, it is easy to overlook the simple charm of a comedy and feel-good story.

That is precisely what The Sheep Detectives, directed by Kyle Balda, offers.

The mystery comedy flick stars Hugh Jackman alongside an impressive ensemble that includes Nicholas Braun, Nicholas Galitzine, Molly Gordon, Hong Chau, Emma Thompson, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Chris O’Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart, Bella Ramsey, Brett Goldstein and Rhys Darby.

The story centres on George (Hugh Jackman), a shepherd who spends his evenings reading detective novels to his flock, unaware that the sheep are paying close attention.

When a mysterious incident disrupts life on the farm, the sheep decide to put their newfound detective skills to the test.

Guided by the lessons learned from George’s stories, they begin to follow clues, question suspects and piece together a mystery of their own.

What you need to know about The Sheep Detectives

The film is based on the bestselling 2005 novel Three Bags Full by German crime writer Leonie Swann, and, like the film, it incorporates elements of dark comedy, whimsical mystery and satire.

Originally published in German, the book became an international bestseller and has since been translated into more than 30 languages.

Critics praised the novel for its originality, with many highlighting its inventive take on the traditional detective story.

Among them was The Guardian, which commended Swann for bringing a fresh perspective to the animal mystery genre while avoiding many of the clichés commonly associated with detective fiction.

In 2024, it was revealed that a film adaptation was in development, with principal photography took place across several locations in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and Surrey.

Director Balda has said he was drawn to the project because of its distinctive blend of comedy, mystery and heartfelt storytelling.

In an interview with Animation Scoop, he described the sheep as a group of lovable misfits caught up in a murder investigation, creating opportunities for both humour and emotional depth.

The film also marks a milestone in Balda’s career, as it is his first live‑action‑and‑animation hybrid feature after directing animated hits such as Despicable Me 3 and The Lorax.

The transition, he said, is one of the greatest creative challenges of his career, allowing him to explore new storytelling techniques while drawing on the experience he gained in animation.

Balda said he hopes the film helps parents and children have meaningful conversations about grief, loss and remembrance in an empowering way.

“If this becomes a way for parents to talk to their kids about these harder themes in a way that empowers them, then that’s fantastic.

“That’s my hope for the film,” he added in the Animation Scoop interview.

What early reviews are saying about the film

Early reactions nationwide have been largely positive, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts.

While the film is rated PG12 and features dark elements, some have described it as one that “will truly melt the hearts of the entire family.”

Others highlighted its comforting tone, with one viewer comparing the experience to “being wrapped in a blanket during rainy weather while somebody tells you life will be okay again eventually.”

Another review noted that the film rose above its unusual premise, delivering a story that was both humorous and heartfelt, supported by memorable characters and relatable themes.

The Sheep Detectives premiered nationwide on May 28.