Genndy Tartakovsky (the iconic mind behind Cartoon Network classics like Dexter’s Laboratory and Samurai Jack as well as the Hotel Transylvania series) returns with a new film, Fixed. Not only does his latest have nostalgic aesthetics and a wildly raunchy approach, but it possibly gives Netflix—and dogs in general—their own Sausage Party.
Fixed follows Bull (Adam Devine), a good-hearted dog who goes on one last wild night with his canine cohorts before his owners get him neutered. Within the first few minutes of Fixed, there are two things that instantly make it stand apart. The first is its animation, as Tartakovsky channels all the visual flair of the late ’90s/early 2000s cartoons that got him started. The film’s eye-pleasing 2D, hand-drawn animation takes you back to classic shows like Ren & Stimpy and Rocko’s Modern Life. The character designs are charming, fitted with irresistible smiles and animated reactions that draw you deeper into the antics. In a move reminiscent of Cow & Chicken, no human face is ever shown, as the animals totally run the show. And, when things get action-y, it’s drawn with a lot of dynamic movement and violence you don’t see anymore. Fixed is another shining example of the 2D revival we’re currently seeing and with the film’s more adult-driven mindset, the animation finds “other” ways to be different.
Fixed also molds its own identity through Tartakovsky’s dirty comedy. If there’s anyone out there who still thinks that animated movies are “just for kids,” Fixed will certainly make them believe otherwise. There are plenty of egregious flashes of Bull’s pouched pals and some NSFW activities and conversations involving dogs that, well, make you think differently about them. The film definitely sees Tartakovsky pull from the dirtiest parts of his mind to fuel this adult edge that results in some hilarious scenes. The opening is a chaotic riot where Bull tries to get his rocks off with literally anything he can find—including Nana’s poor old leg. The first act is filled with plenty of dirty talk stemming from a cast of funny dog characters who are totally unfiltered. Plus, once these characters are let off the leash, nothing stops them from enacting some heinous debauchery—doggy style, of course. Whether it’s a brutally hilarious hunt for a squirrel with shocking results or going toe-to-toe with some alley cats, Bull and his buddies leave nothing undone in their big night out. Tartakovsky’s ability to take something innocent we all think of and love and twist our own horny attitudes into it is what makes Fixed evoke the same spirit as Sausage Party, for better or worse.
Like Sausage Party, Fixed definitely stretches and tests your limits for raunchy comedy equivalent to a college party/road trip flick. It pushes the envelope every chance it gets, both visually and narratively, and that might make it a quick turnoff for some viewers. It’s definitely why Fixed is probably going to Netflix instead of getting a traditional theatrical release, and admittedly, the film leans on the raunchiness of its subject matter to get by. The story, as a whole, can barely hold together at times and often does just enough to get from one wild situation to the next. The overarching narrative isn’t all that strong and there’s no impactful takeaway from Bull’s journey. Any kind of messaging the film tries to have gets lost in the lewd conduct, so it’s all just face-value material.
That isn’t the worst thing, though, since Fixed usually succeeds at delivering crude comedy largely thanks to its cast and Tartakovsky. Devine is perfect for voicing Bull, as he brings a charismatic charm to Bull’s dirty thoughts and constant habits of being in over his head. Devine also shares some strong chemistry with Kathryn Hahn’s Honey to give Bull and Honey’s romantic storyline a heartfelt pull that lasts. Also, Idris Elba stands out as Bull’s trusty pal Rocco, with hilariously delivered lines that flex the film’s R-rating. Honestly, the entire cast works flawlessly with Tartakovsky’s vision, which is fueled with a persistent confidence that’s hard to hate. Even when some of the situations or jokes may go too far or become excessive, it’s tough to not appreciate his dedication to this style. It’s something that won’t work for everyone, but is so unabashedly itself that it quickly earns your respect and will have you laughing before you know it.
If you’re someone who really loves stuff like Sausage Party, or even the more recent Strays, Fixed is definitely worth your time. Or, if you’re just looking for an R-rated comedy that dives headfirst into the gutter—maybe to its own detriment at times—that’s equal parts nostalgic, hilarious, and fairly distinct, then Tartakovsky’s latest needs to be on your Netflix watchlist.
