A New Heist in the Making
In the world of animated films, the line between good and bad can be as thin as a spider’s web. For the sequel to Universal and DreamWorks’ 2022 hit, The Bad Guys, the stakes are higher than ever. The film introduces a new set of characters who are not only mischievous but also determined to pull off a global heist. This time, the spotlight is on Kitty Kat, a snow leopard with a sharp mind and a sly demeanor, played by Danielle Brooks.
Kitty Kat leads the Bad Girls, a trio that includes Pigtail, a wild boar, and Doom, a raven. Together, they have a plan that requires the help of the now-reformed Bad Guys: Mr. Wolf, Mr. Snake, Mr. Piranha, and Ms. Tarantula. However, these former villains are trying their best to maintain their new "good guys" image and stop the Bad Girls from pulling off their scheme.
Brooks was inspired by the movements of leopards when she approached the role of Kitty Kat. She emphasized the character's mischievous spirit and how she takes her time to execute her plans. Pierre Perifel, the director of both the first and second films, suggested that Brooks study Christoph Waltz’s performance in Inglourious Basterds for inspiration. He noted that Waltz’s character, Hans Landa, took joy in his actions and used a slow burn to achieve his goals, something that Brooks found relatable to Kitty Kat’s approach.
Perifel also drew from other cinematic influences, such as Skyfall and True Romance. These films helped shape the tension and control that Kitty Kat exerts over the Bad Guys. According to Perifel, Kitty Kat is already in a position of power, making it a matter of checkmate.
Kitty Kat’s dynamic with Wolf, the mastermind of the Bad Guys, is particularly intriguing. Brooks described how Kitty Kat is always ahead of the game, but Wolf is even more strategic, keeping things interesting. She learned from him while also managing to outsmart him, showcasing her cunning nature.
Working with Sam Rockwell, who plays Wolf, was a unique experience for Brooks. Unlike many animated projects, she had the opportunity to record dialogue with Rockwell, which helped her get into the character more naturally. Rockwell’s deep understanding of Wolf provided a foundation for Brooks to build upon.
Expanding the franchise, the film draws inspiration from Aaron Blabey’s The Bad Guys series. Perifel and his team were especially influenced by book five, Intergalactic Gas, which led to an out-of-this-world idea involving space travel. The film features a big set piece where the characters steal a rocket and venture into space, exploring new possibilities.
One of the gags from the books that made it to the big screen is a humorous scene involving Piranha and Wolf sharing a space suit. After eating too many burritos, Piranha becomes gassy, leading to a funny moment that resonates with audiences. As a parent, Perifel found this gag particularly amusing and knew it would be a hit with kids.
For Brooks, the film holds special significance as she prepares to share it with her 5-year-old daughter. Her daughter recognizes her voice from the trailer, and Brooks is excited to take her to the premiere. While she hopes her daughter won’t become a “bad girl,” she’s already working on teaching her that screaming “That’s my mommy!” might not be the best approach.
As the film continues to build anticipation, fans are eager to see how the Bad Guys and Bad Girls will navigate their complex relationships and high-stakes plans. With its blend of humor, action, and heart, The Bad Guys 2 promises to be a thrilling addition to the franchise.
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