Hugh Jackman has reached a remarkable new peak in his illustrious career. His latest film, a charming family mystery calledThe Sheep Detectives, has soared to the top of the Rotten Tomatoes charts, achieving the highest critical ranking of any movie he’s ever starred in.
This is no small accomplishment considering the breadth of his work – from the iconic role of Wolverine in theX-Menfranchise to the emotionally resonantLes Misérablesand the dazzling spectacle ofThe Greatest Showman.The Sheep Detectivesstands alongside his best, captivating critics with its unique blend of whimsy and intrigue.
The film, playfully described as a delightful collision betweenBabeandKnives Out, initially exploded onto the scene with a 96% approval rating based on early reviews. While it has settled slightly to 94%, it remains tied with his 2019 crime drama,Bad Education, as his highest-rated project on the platform.
Just behind, with a 93% score, isLogan, Jackman’s powerfully raw and critically acclaimed farewell to the character that defined a generation. Other favorites likeX-Men: Days of Future Past, the animated adventureMissing Link, and the originalX2also rank highly among his celebrated films.
The Sheep Detectivespresents a truly original premise: a shepherd, George Hardy, regularly reads detective novels aloud to his flock, complete with character voices. Unbeknownst to him, the sheep are absorbing every detail, and when a mysterious incident disrupts their peaceful existence, they decide to take matters into their own hooves and become detectives themselves.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring Emma Thompson, Nicholas Braun, and Nicholas Galitzine alongside a stellar voice cast including Bryan Cranston, Sir Patrick Stewart, Chris O’Dowd, Bella Ramsey, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Brett Goldstein. The combined talent elevates the story to something truly special.
Critics have been effusive in their praise.Colliderhailed it as “one of the year’s most delightful surprises,” whileTime Outdescribed it as “irrepressibly jolly.” Comparisons to beloved classics likeMidsomer Murders,The Thursday Murder Club, and evenWatership Downhighlight its broad appeal and clever storytelling.
Beyond the entertainment value, reviewers have noted the film’s surprising depth. One critic observed that this seemingly lighthearted tale about crime-solving animals actually explores profound themes of observation and the passing down of values, surpassing many serious dramas in its impact.
Mashablepromises a “feel-good movie that’s sure to delight all ages,” andThe Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw praised the film’s ability to navigate a central mystery without succumbing to unnecessary sadness, instead focusing on the engaging and inventive detective work of its woolly protagonists.
Audiences will soon have the opportunity to experience the magic ofThe Sheep Detectivesfor themselves. The film is set to arrive in UK cinemas on Friday, May 8, with special advance screenings available throughout the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend.
