The live-action animated comedy-mystery The Sheep Detectives, directed by American director Kyle Balda, is due for release in cinemas across China on May 16.
A film poster shows the China release date of The Sheep Detectives on Saturday, May 16, 2026. / Photo provided to CGTN
Earlier, a highly anticipated China premiere was held in Beijing to promote the film that features Hollywood A-lister Hugh Jackman in a unique live-action role as a murdered shepherd, alongside a star-studded Chinese voice cast.
A major highlight of the event was the appearance of Chinese actress Ma Sichun, who lends her voice to Lily, the courageous leader of the sheep detective team. This project marks Ma's debut in film voice acting. As a graduate of broadcasting and hosting, Ma expressed her excitement about finally putting her academic training into practice. She revealed that she accepted the role immediately without hesitation.
Chinese actress Ma Sichun appears at the China premiere for The Sheep Detectives in Beijing on May 10, 2026. /Photo provided to CGTN
The movie tells the quirky tale of a flock of sheep who are unwittingly trained in criminology. Their shepherd, George (played by Jackman), loves reading mystery novels aloud to them every night. While George never expected the animals to comprehend the plots, the sheep were secretly avid listeners, often debating the clues and storylines among themselves. When George is mysteriously found dead, these "theoretical experts" decide it is time to put their knowledge into practice.
Blending slapstick humor with a heartwarming narrative, The Sheep Detectives promises a unique cinematic experience for audiences of all ages.
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