On August 1, 2025, DreamWorks Animation released The Bad Guys 2 in theaters across the United States. The sequel to the 2022 hit brings back the ensemble of anthropomorphic animal characters—Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Shark, Mr. Piranha, and Ms. Tarantula—who are coaxed out of retirement for another elaborate heist, this time alongside a new all-female criminal crew. Directed by Pierre Perifel, the film features returning voice actors Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, and Awkwafina, along with new additions such as Danielle Brooks, Natasha Lyonne, and Maria Bakalova.
The film opened to strong early interest, pulling in about $2.3 million from Thursday night previews in North America, more than doubling the preview earnings of its predecessor. Industry projections estimated an opening weekend take between $25 million and $35 million, setting expectations on par with other successful animated sequels in recent years.
Critical response has been mixed. Several reviewers praised the film’s sharper humor, tighter pacing, and enhanced emotional depth. The animation style received particular acclaim for its vibrant visuals and stylized action sequences. Outlets noted that the film may even surpass the original in terms of narrative sophistication and visual flair. Others appreciated the positive themes of friendship and redemption, describing the sequel as a lively and family-friendly outing.
However, not all assessments were positive. Some critics felt the sequel lacked the charm and originality of the first film. While acknowledging the technical prowess of the animation, detractors pointed to a flatter script and less effective satire. Certain reviews criticized the story for being overly complex or tonally uneven, with moments of humor not quite landing as intended.
Audience reactions have generally been favorable. Viewers have noted the fun nods to classic heist tropes, fast-paced action, and the continued chemistry among the main characters. Many parents appreciated the balance of kid-friendly humor with clever references that adults could enjoy. The combination of stylized animation and energetic storytelling appeared to resonate across age groups.
The film’s narrative centers on the characters adjusting to post-crime life before being drawn into a new caper involving a mysterious substance called “MacGuffinite.” The plot includes a high-stakes rocket launch and a tech mogul antagonist with shades of real-world figures, adding a satirical edge to the adventure. While the storyline pushes the franchise into broader territory, not all viewers felt the expansion improved the series.
With a production budget estimated around $80 million, comparable to the first film, the sequel appears on track to meet or exceed its predecessor’s box office performance. The original The Bad Guys opened with around $24 million and eventually earned $97 million domestically. The sequel’s release timing—early August—positions it well to attract families before other major films hit theaters, especially the highly anticipated Disney release Freakier Friday on August 8.
The movie’s debut reinforces the strong demand for animated franchise storytelling, especially those that blend action and humor with accessible life lessons. Its performance may influence DreamWorks’ strategy for upcoming projects and potential franchise extensions. Reports indicate that a third installment is already in development, a move that reflects confidence in the brand’s sustained popularity.
In the broader animation landscape, The Bad Guys 2 adds to a recent string of releases showcasing DreamWorks’ evolving creative direction. Alongside titles like The Wild Robot and the latest How to Train Your Dragon entry, the studio seems focused on marrying visual innovation with family-centric narratives. Whether this sequel ultimately secures a lasting place in the genre’s upper tier may depend on its staying power at the box office and continued resonance with audiences.
