While our friends in the UK had the opportunity to see Aardman Animations’ new film Shaun the Sheep Movie months ago, here in the US we’re barely getting the pleasure of seeing this little gem of a film. And it was definitely worth the wait.
Shaun the Sheep Movie tells the story of Shaun, a sheep who lives on a farm with his fellow sheep family. He lives under the watchful care of the loving Farmer and his dog Bitzer. But life on the farm gets monotonous after he repeats the same thing day after day. Shaun decides that he needs a break and concocts a plan to get the Farmer out of the way for the day, so that he and his friend can lounge around the house eating delicious snacks.
This plan backfires and the Farmer ends up rolling into the city in a camper trailer, which results in a hospital stay with amnesia. Soon, Shaun realizes that life without the Farmer is quite a dull and hungry experience, so he and his friends make the journey into the city to bring the Farmer back. But by the time they arrive, the Farmer has become a local hairstyling celebrity thanks to his many years shearing sheep. Are Shaun, Bitzer, and the sheep it too late?
Shaun the Sheep Movie is based on the popular TV show Shaun the Sheep, which has over four seasons under its belt. But, luckily, the movie feels like a standalone work. Moviegoers who are unfamiliar with the show will be able to comfortably jump right into the movie and not feel the least bit lost.
Despite having absolutely no dialogue (other than a few songs), the film delivers its plot, message, and humor with a punch. The lack of dialogue forced the filmmakers to make sure the visuals and music were stellar, and they absolutely are top notch. From the first few strains of the score at the beginning, the music steals the show and helps to carry the emotion of the characters.
Aardman Animations, creator of the popular Wallace and Gromit shorts, has always been known for its clever humor and expert comedic timing. Shaun the Sheep Movie is no exception. From when the sheep find human clothes and eat in a posh restaurant to when the Farmer stumbles into celebrity status when he accidentally gives a someone the same cut as his sheep, moviegoers will laugh through this entire film and love every moment of it.
Shaun the Sheep Movie can be described in two words: hilariously adorable. It’s a smart animated film that doesn’t pander to the kids and encourages viewers of all ages to have a great time.
