Hugh Jackman on The Sheep Detectives: 'This is a movie about growing up and all the fun of it'

Hugh Jackman in The Sheep Detectives

Hugh Jackman is stepping away from his iconic superhero image for an unusual and heartwarming role in the upcoming comedy The Sheep Detectives. In the film, Jackman portrays a shepherd whose shocking death prompts his flock of sheep to take matters into their own hooves and investigate the mystery behind his murder.

Hugh Jackman on his reaction to the script of The Sheep Detectives

The actor recently shared that he was instantly drawn to the project and committed to it very early while reading the script. According to Jackman, the story struck an emotional chord, leaving him in tears multiple times before he had even finished reading it.

"Craig wrote such a beautiful script, and I knew that in Kyle's hands it would become something truly special- heartwarming, funny, and unique. Comedy without heart isn't satisfying- it wears thin. This story is full of heart. That's what audiences want: to be moved, to be surprised, to be transported," the actor says.

Jackman revealed that he was sold on the film by page 25 of the script.

Interestingly, the role also brought back memories of his younger days in Australia, where he briefly worked on a sheep farm in the outback. Although he had some familiarity with the environment, the actor admitted he wasn't exactly an expert when filming began. However, as production progressed, he developed a genuine fondness for the animals, aided by highly realistic stand-ins used on set.

When Jackman was asked what the audience would take from the film, he said, "You're going to laugh; it's funny. It's a great murder mystery, which is always fun. I think it's heartwarming and it's for everybody. This is a movie about growing up and all the fun of it and also the difficulty of it. And about kind of coming into your own; who you are, like every character really has that arc of finding out who they really are and who they can be. And I think it's really life-affirming and hopefully people walk out with a smile on their face and an open heart," he said adding, "...and not ordering lamb at dinner."

More about The Sheep Detectives

The film follows a flock of sheep who launch their own investigation after their beloved shepherd is mysteriously killed. Alongside Hugh Jackman, the film also features Nicholas Braun, Nicholas Galitzine, Molly Gordon, Emma Thompson, and Conleth Hill in key roles.

The sheep themselves are voiced by an ensemble cast including Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Chris O'Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart, Bella Ramsey, Brett Goldstein, and Rhys Darby.

The movie is adapted from Three Bags Full by Leonie Swann. The screenplay has been written by Craig Mazin, while Kyle Balda directs the project.

The film will be released in theatres on May 8.