The Sheep Detectives takes a new approach to the old “whodunit” storyline. Sheep herder and town grump, George Hardy (Hugh Jackman), is found dead in front of his trailer. The town constable is useless. The sheep decide they must investigate, using the training they received by listening to George read murder mysteries to them every day.
This is a fun story. The talented cast includes Emma Thompson, who plays barrister Lydia Harbottle. Her character is an over-the-top portrayal of all British barristers, giving us a good dose of humor in the film.
The sheep are the true stars of the show. Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Lily), Bryan Cranston (Sebastian), Chris O’Dowd (Mopple), and Regina Hall (Cloud) highlight a cast of voice actors that make this film a true delight to watch. Watching these sheep overcome their instincts to honor their shepherd is wonderful.
I watched this film at a Saturday-morning showing, filled with young kids and parents. The kids, sometimes a terror to this old critic for their loud outbursts, were quiet while watching the film with rapt attention. Yes, the film is that good.
Director: Kyle Balda
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Nicholas Braun, Nicholas Galitzine, Molly Gordon, with Hong Chau and Emma Thompson, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Chris O’Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart, Bella Ramsey, Brett Goldstein, Rhys Darby
MPA Rating: PG for thematic material, some violent content, and brief language
Selig Rating: 5 Stars
Runtime: 108 Min.
Release Date: 05/08/2026
Language: English
Genre(s): Action, Comedy, Mystery, Whodunnit
Trailer: THE SHEEP DETECTIVES Official Trailer #2
The Selig Rating Scale:
5 Stars – Excellent movie/show, well worth the time and price.
4 Stars – Good movie/show
3 Stars – OK movie/show
2 Stars – Well, there was nothing else…
1 Star – Total waste of time.