The Bad Guys: Episode 1

“They’re great guys. But just like me, they are MISUNDERSTOOD. So don’t go anywhere, OK?”

Mr. Wolf introduces his friends and coworkers, a diverse group that emphasizes the theme of Teamwork Amongst Unlikely Allies. The emphasis of “MISUNDERSTOOD” demonstrates Mr. Wolf’s emotional tone and how tired he is of feeling this way. This line also foreshadows the group’s journey toward Transformation and Going Against One’s Nature, highlighting the idea that most people’s reactions to them are based on appearances and reputation.

“Look at this face. Is this the face of a monster? I don’t think so. This is ONE SWEET GUY.”

Mr. Wolf’s self-assured statement contrasts with his intimidating appearance, which creates irony to challenge readers’ assumptions. The phrase “ONE SWEET GUY” is hyperbolic and untrue, adding humor and emphasizing the deceiving way that Mr. Wolf introduces his friends. This disingenuousness also highlights the fact that Blabey leaves Mr. Wolf’s trustworthiness in doubt early in the novel.

“Enough with the mice, or I’ll eat you!”

This line shows Mr. Wolf’s struggle between his predatory instincts and his aspiration to be good. The threat is juxtaposed with his desire to change, which illustrates the internal conflict central to his character development and motivation. He shows that going against one’s nature is harder than it seems, as he falls back on violence to solve a conflict.

“I’m hungry. You got any seals?”

Mr. Shark’s casual request for seals, a hint toward his carnivorous nature, adds humor and emphasizes how difficult it is going to be for him to fight what he has always done. This line serves as a reminder of the group’s ongoing battle with their instincts and going against their natures.

“I’m a genius! And I’m going to make us all HEROES!”

Mr. Wolf’s exclamation reflects his optimism and determination, two characteristics that drive the group’s missions and success. The use of “genius” and “HEROES” emphasizes his belief in the group’s potential for change, as well as his own somewhat pompous belief in himself. He again uses hyperbole to make his point, counting on his enthusiasm to convince his friends.

“Now, everybody climb aboard! And let’s go do some GOOD!”

Mr. Wolf’s enthusiasm is endless, and as he calls the group to action, he emphasizes his commitment to their mission. The strong tone used communicates a sense of urgency and shows Mr. Wolf as the leader of the group. This approaches the theme of going against one’s nature from a different perspective, as Mr. Wolf establishes himself as the leader of their pack.

“If we’re going to be good guys, don’t you think we should look good, too?”

Mr. Wolf’s suggestion to adopt a new appearance symbolizes the desire for transformation that he has and that he is trying to instill in his compadres. This line introduces the idea of image compared to a person’s true personality, and how image can be deceiving in this regard. Mr. Wolf thinks that by changing his appearance, he can change how others see him, but it soon becomes clear that it isn’t so simple.

“Wait a second…I think I can smell trouble right now.”

Mr. Shark’s heightened senses, a characteristic of his species, are used to detect impending challenges. In this case, his talent is used to detect something much fouler: Mr. Piranha’s gas. The irony in this moment becomes one of the story’s most humorous scenes.

“Man, he’s really freaking out. What’s his problem?”

This question shows how clueless Mr. Shark can be about his own intimidation factor and the way he comes across to others. After bearing his massive rows of teeth to an already terrified cat, Mr. Shark wonders why the cat is so panicked and scared. This scene shows his total lack of self-awareness.

“I should have stayed in Bolivia.”

Mr. Piranha’s regretful statement reflects his discomfort with the mission and the idea of becoming good, as he starts to think it isn’t possible. Mr. Piranha frequently refers to his home country, indicating that his heritage is an important part of his personality. He is also the most reluctant member of the crew, highlighted by this statement.

“I don’t hug. I bite. So back off, Mr. Snuggles.”

Mr. Snake’s declaration emphasizes his tough exterior and reluctance to embrace affection, even from his friends. His use of the nickname “Mr. Snuggles” for Mr. Wolf adds humor and emphasizes Mr. Snake’s sarcastic attitude, as well as Mr. Wolf’s newly transformed persona.

“Their hopes and dreams are trapped behind walls of stone and bars of steel.”

This metaphor describes the dogs’ imprisonment, symbolizing their lost potential and how awful they must feel. The quote shows that Mr. Wolf has gained some semblance of empathy and understands the plight of others. This mission is the group’s biggest yet and is what determines their agreement in becoming good.

“Oh. I’m just going to throw you through that tiny little window.”

Mr. Wolf’s practical and honest approach to problem-solving shows his leadership style and hints at the fact that he still has some wolfish tendencies underneath. The casual tone juxtaposed with the action adds humor and showcases the absurdity of the situation. The fact that he casually endangers the others also shows that he still doesn’t completely understand what it means to be good.