Genndy Tartakovsky’s "Fixed": A Bold Dive into Raunchy Animation
Genndy Tartakovsky’s "Fixed" is a groundbreaking animated film that defies traditional norms. This R-rated sex comedy centers around Bull, a bloodhound mix who hatches a plan to escape his impending neutering. Imagine Spike Lee’s "25th Hour" blended with Disney’s "Lady and the Tramp," and you’ll begin to grasp the chaotic charm of this audacious project.
A Passion Project Finally Realized
For years, Tartakovsky, the visionary behind the immensely successful "Hotel Transylvania" series, nurtured "Fixed" as a labor of love. With over $1 billion in box office success from his previous works, you’d think the industry would be eager to back this daring venture. However, finding a suitable home was a Herculean task. Initially co-produced with New Line Cinema and later dropped, "Fixed" lingered in limbo—fully completed but almost forgotten in the corporate shuffle of streaming and tax incentives.
But fear not! After a triumphant premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, this unexpected treasure is set to debut on Netflix later this year. Parents, brace yourselves for quite the shock when they encounter this wild animated adventure while scrolling for family-friendly content.
Meet Bull and His Band of Misfits
At the center of this outrageous escapade is Bull, voiced by Adam Levine. As the titular dog, he’s blissfully unaware of the fate that awaits him. His circle of friends includes:
- Rocco (Idris Elba): The muscular boxer with a soft heart.
- Fetch (Fred Armisen): The stylish dachshund, Instagram-ready.
- Lucky (Bobby Moynihan): A lovable but dopey beagle.
- Honey (Kathryn Hahn): The glamorous show dog and object of Bull’s affections.
When Bull discovers the truth about his impending snip, he embarks on an escapade across the city to reclaim his autonomy and indulge his wild side. Of course, he drags his quirky crew along for the ride.
A Distinct Blend of Humor and Heart
"Fixed" leans into the raunchy humor reminiscent of early 2000s comedies, drawing inspiration from films like "The 40-Year-Old Virgin." Yet it offers more than just shock value. The film explores friendship and self-discovery, wrapped in a chaotic narrative that keeps you guessing.
Tartakovsky goes all out, showcasing a comedic landscape populated with animated body parts and risqué humor. One of the film’s standout moments is a hilarious gag that’s both shocking and sidesplitting—an unforgettable climax that will leave audiences in stitches.
Heart Meets Hilarity
Beneath the provocative humor, "Fixed" unveils unexpected layers of sentimentality. The camaraderie among the characters, based on Tartakovsky’s own friendships, brims with warmth and authenticity. Bull’s relationship with Honey evolves from mere puppy love to genuine emotional connection, culminating in heartfelt conversations about their feelings. Yes, the film is indeed “sweet and horrific, all at the same time,” as one character aptly puts it.
A Triumphant Animation Style
Produced by Renegade and Lightstar Studios, "Fixed" proudly showcases hand-drawn 2D animation, a rarity in today’s digital-first landscape. The film’s aesthetic is charmingly scrappy, emphasizing its indie spirit rather than polished perfection. Tartakovsky truly pushes the boundaries of animation, delivering a breathtaking shot toward the film’s conclusion that captivates both for its technical brilliance and emotional depth.
Conclusion: A Unique Animated Experience
Ultimately, "Fixed" is not for everyone. Its raw humor and unconventional storyline may alienate some viewers. However, those attuned to its unique rhythm will discover one of the most original and surprising animated features in recent memory. With themes exploring autonomy, love, and friendship intertwined with outrageous nudity jokes, the film revels in its quirks—proving that it’s not just about the balls, but also about the heart.
As audiences eagerly await its Netflix release, "Fixed" stands as a testament to Tartakovsky’s creative daring—a film that breaks all the rules while delivering a genuine message about finding oneself in a chaotic world.
