"The Sheep Detectives" follows a flock determined to solve the killing of their shepherd. The premise, as introduced in the film, is simple yet quirky: "Our shepherd was murdered and we shall solve the crime.'"
The story unfolds as the unlikely investigators venture beyond their familiar meadow for the first time. In one scene, they are challenged to confront their fears.
Their journey is complicated by human characters who offer little help along the way.
Actor Nicholas Braun, who voices one of the human characters, described that figure as flawed but compelling.
"A little bit bumbly and he's not the smartest guy in the room kind of thing," Braun said. "But I thought the sort of weight on his shoulders was really interesting, that he has to prove himself."
The sheep are the stars of this show, and they're bringing some serious star power: Byan Cranston, Regina Hall, Brett Goldstein, Chris O'Dowd and Julia Louis-Dreyfus all lend their voices to the flock.
O'Dowd said the characters' differences are key to solving the case.
"The flock all have various abilities and disabilities, as it were," he said. "And when they work together, obviously, they work at their best to solve this mystery."
Beyond its comedic premise, the film also explores broader themes of acceptance and connection. Actress Molly Gordon highlighted those messages.
"It doesn't really matter where you come from," she said. "We all belong to this earth and we all, can find more connection with each other if we're open to a conversation. I think the themes around acceptance are really beautiful in the movie."
The mystery itself includes unexpected twists. Braun admitted, "I had no idea."
O'Dowd echoed that sentiment, adding, "I didn't know where it was gonna go. I kind of like that it has, as people will see, lots of different strands. Kind of like a 'Knives Out' kind of a vibe where, okay, maybe it's that person."
Rated PG, "The Sheep Detectives" opens in theaters this Mother's Day weekend, offering a mix of humor, mystery and lessons about teamwork and acceptance for audiences of all ages.