Fresh from the comedy classic, “Tommy Boy,” Paramount Pictures green-lit a comedy known as “Black Sheep.” In an attempt to capitalize the facial success of the former, Lorne Michaels helped produced the latter. Chris Farley (may he Rest in Peace) & David Spade signed on to headline the movie. A political aide is assigned to keep an eye on the brother of a candidate running for governor in an attempt to prevent further embarrassment. The pair hang out in the wilderness and uncover the current governor’s dirty secrets.
Released in 1996, (same year Happy Gilmore came out) it received divisive reviews from critics. Like Tommy Boy, Black Sheep gained a cult following thanks to Chris Farley & David Spade’s chemistry and for people who grew up or were born in the ‘90s like me. Anyway, I have on good reason why I wanna review Black Sheep. Paul Walter Hauser will star in a biopic as Chris Farley. Josh Gad’s set to direct. As of early 2026, no release date’s confirmed.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS.
Right & Wrong Aspects
Right: Chris Farley & David Spade both did an excellent job for their respective performances. A darn shame this movies the last time they worked together.
Other Cast Members such as Tom Matheson, Christine Ebersole & Gary Busey all did a decent job for their respective performances.
Penelope Spheeris (Wayne’s World) did a solid job directing.
Lorne Michaels served as a producer.
Former SNL writer, Fred Wolf wrote the script.
Funny Moments made me laugh so hard.
Cinematography’s shot in natural condition.
Pacing didn’t feel like a slow burn.
Chemistry between Mike & Steve serves as the main highlight.
Random Thoughts
- I used to own a VHS tape of Black Sheep along with Tommy Boy. I used to watch ‘em all the time growing up.
- Drake’s surname, Sabitch went over my head as a kid. Sounds like a Bart Simpson prank call. Initially, I thought it was Savage.
- Tracy reminds me of national embarrassment, Hillary Clinton. This movie tried to warn us she’s a terrible person.
Fun Facts
- Chris Owen (Sherminator from American Pie) makes a brief appearance.
- Rock band, Mudhoney perform at a Rock the Vote concert.
- Mike said, “Shut up, Steve.” A reference to one of Tommy Boy’s catchphrases, “Shut up, Richard.”
- Gene Siskel mentioned he walked out watching Black Sheep.
- Although a classic ‘90s comedy, Chris & David admit they didn’t like working on it. They felt Black Sheep’s too similar to Tommy Boy. David often talks about his friendship with Chris on a podcast with Dana Carvey.
In one scene, Mike shouts, “I hate snakes!” An Indiana Jones reference.
My favorite part is when Mike goes up on stage encouraging people to vote. It earns Bonus Points for making me laugh hysterically. Gosh darn it! Why did Chris Farley die too soon? He could’ve been in “Grown Ups.”
The last scene predates the opening scene from “Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation.”
Wrong: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Chris, David and the crew and Extra Point for making a worthy successor to Tommy Boy as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
Even though a lot people like Gene Siskel hated Black Sheep, I thought it was hysterically funny as heck. I don’t understand the hate. Don’t believe the haters. If you haven’t seen this ‘90s classic from my childhood, it’s a must-see if you wanna laugh your butt off. I hope Paul Walter Hauser pulls off a worthy performance of the late legend.
Rest In Peace, Chris Farley. Your legacy continues to inspire future comical actors.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 