Inspector Sun is a computer animated mystery from Spain that follows the titular detective as he tries to solve a murder while trying to untangle a web of lies. After being fired, Inspector Sun decides to take a vacation. His plans quickly fall apart and the huntsman spider soon finds his skills put to the test.
Starting with the soundtrack, the production is fantastic. The 1930s noir setting is complemented perfectly by the jazzy score. In a story full of anthropomorphic bugs, the soundtrack gives the plot a grounded detective story feel. The animation is fun with enough color to keep younger audiences engaged while older viewers will recognize noirish tropes.
The story can get a little bumpy. It never fails in conveying its classic mystery feel, but there are some surprisingly dark moments. These scenes feel strange in a movie that is so clearly meant to appeal to children and will stick out in a bad way. The jokes also tend to get repetitive.
Neither is a dealbreaker and both are part and parcel for family friendly fare, however. It is the characters that are most important and this is where Inspector Sun shines. A running theme is Sun may be more lucky than good. Thankfully, there is a young fan of his on the same trip who has become a good detective thanks to all the time spent studying her idol. This Inspector Gadget dynamic leads to some of the film’s best parts.
The supporting cast adds to the fun. There are all manner of insects and each bring a neat wrinkle. The black widow has lost many husbands while there are worker ants to service the plane that serves as the setting for much of Inspector Sun. Though it is set in the same world as humans, there is little action involving people. This smaller world that exists in the actual world is there for some visual gags and little else, though.
Inspector Sun is a murder mystery that has a clear target audience. The breezy comedy and buggy characters are meant for kids. Still, there are some scenes that parents may get more enjoyment out of. In the end, the engaging whodunit will make sure that all audiences will enjoy it.
Inspector Sun opens in theaters October 27
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