I’m Trevor with the Sasquatch Movie Minute with a look at THE SHEEP DETECTIVES, directed by Kyle Balda, starring Hugh Jackman. When a shepherd is found dead, it is up to his herd of talking sheep to solve the mystery of his murder.

4.5 out of 5

What is this movie?? It is a delightful, moving family film that deals with themes of acceptance, grief, and bigotry. Sound weird yet? It’s like a wholesome combination of ANIMAL FARM, KNIVES OUT, and HOT FUZZ. The sheep actually have a fascinatingly complex social structure. They are able to purposely erase their memories of unpleasant moments and the consequences of that belief are explored. They also believe that sheep turn into clouds when they get old, which leads to some lovely scenes. A matter-of-fact exchange where the sheep discuss God is hilarious. I found the human characters a little thin and not as interesting as the sheep, though the mystery was done well.

Best Scene. There is a long sequence at night that passes through every tone; from fright, to tragedy, to deeply moving existentialism. It ends with a scene of two sheep on a road, talking about how best to live their lives. There was one line, ‘I remember my mother’s face,’ that just knocked me over.

Best Performance. Julia Louis-Dreyfus does some lovely work as the lead sheep, but I was especially bowled over by the voice work of Chris Dowd as one sheep who can’t forget. His lines, filled with tragic knowing and an effected daffiness born of the need to survive, are stunning.

This film came out of left field for me, and I was utterly charmed. I hope its heartfelt tale works as well for you and your family.