Why ‘The Bad Guys’ was one of the most exhilarating experiences for the makers

Author-producer Aaron Blabey and director-animator Pierre Perifel chat about the responsibility of adapting much-loved book series ‘The Bad Guys’ into a film

When French filmmaker Pierre Perifel was approached to work on the animated film adaptation of  The Bad Guys, he was thrilled to discover that author and executive producer Aaron Blabey had the utmost confidence in him. “I got the sense early on that Pierre was tremendously good at what he does and very respectful of my work. I felt entirely comfortable with his vision from the very first day,” recalls Balbey.

The Bad Guys follows a rag-tag team of expert thieves who try to revamp their ‘untrustworthy’ image into that of ‘model citizens’ — all to avoid a prison sentence for their past heists. Naturally, numerous backfires and plenty of hilarity ensue. And to top off the fun, the film features some recognisable voices such as Awkwafina, Lilly Singh, Craig Robinson, Sam Rockwell, and more. 

In an interview with  The Hindu, Blabey and Perifel chat about their reservations and triumphs in pulling off a project that is now raking in a lot of love from audiences

As we see more adaptations from books to animated films, where do you both see the responsibility of mainstream production houses lie in telling a story loyally but with a fresh voice?

Perifel: I believe it is of the utmost importance in today’s uber-connected climate, that mainstream houses be able to pass on messages to an audience in an elevated way while also pushing the envelope. The role of media and stories — and of those who tell them — is crucial to keep educating and enlightening all of us, no matter what the target audience is.

It is important to be at the forefront of creativity, generosity and kindness through what is put out there. And in the case of an animated film aimed at younger audiences, to be there not just for the fun or the entertainment, but also to promote reflection and critical thinking. And part of the game is to be able to constantly reinvent the way we do it, both in storytelling and visuals.

Blabey: There is a long, sad history of well-loved books being turned into horrible movies. However, as an author, I have just experienced the very-best-case-scenario. DreamWorks made my dreams come true. They just did.