A purrfect squeak-quel? Yes you read that right. Zootopia 2 is charming, funny, and packed full of puns and animal antics. What more could you want?
Zootopia 2 Review
In 2016 everyone learned about what a hustle is (if you didn't already know) and that the DMV is in fact staffed by sloths. Zootopia was an instant hit with audiences of all ages, the fact that it was also one of the best buddy-cop movies ever aside. Kids loved the anthropomorphic animals and physical humor while the grownups had a blast with the puns, “adult” jokes, and animals working day jobs. Hey we grew up watching Disney classics like Robin Hood, so this was right up our alley. The film's message was also straightforward and sweetly laid out- biases are bad, so stop judging a bunny by her short stature. We all wanted more adventures with this wild bunch of characters and Disney listened. First came the Zootopia+ show which was something nice to tide us over until the sequel. And I know I wasn't the only one crossing fingers that it would be good. I'm happy to report that it's not only good but just as great as the original!
Zootopia 2 is one of those rare examples where the follow-up lives up to the first movie. If you're thinking of great Disney sequels then yes this one is up there with Ralph Breaks The Internet, The Rescuers Down Under, and Frozen 2. Great story, animation, characters, and never once do you sit and think I would rather be watching the original. Jared Bush, who co-wrote the first film's screenplay, is writing the script as well as co-directing with Byron Howard (Tangled, Encanto). This duo once again takes audiences on a wild ride (pun intended) through new and familiar ecosystems as Judy and Nick race to figure out whodunit. It's as fun, charming, and exciting as Zootopia, with plenty of memorable moments and quotes. Ok bub?
The film picks up shortly after the events of the first movie. Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) are officially partners on the ZPD. Things haven't been going super smoothly though as the two butt heads on how best to handle their cases. After messing up another bust, Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) sends them to group therapy run by quokka Dr. Fuzzby (Quinta Brunson). But Judy is already on to the next big thing– Gary De'Snake (Ke Huy Quan) and the secret of the missing reptiles of Zootopia. When she begins to uncover the mystery, Milton Lynxley (David Strathairn) frames Judy and Nick for a theft, forcing them to go on the run to escape death. Determined to prove their innocence, Judy and Nick will need the help of new and familiar animals.
Like the original, Zootopia 2 is a visual feast from the rich environments to the whimsical residents. Everything is colorful, new lighting techniques are utilized that really make the new terrains pop when our heroes make their way through them. Marsh Market is populated with mammals who enjoy water, why they are all country-fied I don't know but I also adore it. Naturally, it's also the home of the only reptile establishment left in Zootopia. From the Marsh to the Tundra, and everywhere in between, the world of Zootopia is just gorgeous. I kinda wish they would make another show and this time spend time in each ecosystem. Aside from looking stunning, Zootopia 2 has all the Disney easter eggs, nods to other films, and loads of animal puns you could ask for. My kid and I weren't the only ones cracking up at little things like shop signs or Weaselton's latest knock-off movies for sale.
I wasn't sure how the new characters would fit into the existing menagerie. With so many iconic and lovable supporting cast in the first one, was there room for anyone else? Turns out there is plenty of space and not only that but these critters are about to become fan favorites too. Helping Judy and Nick out is Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster), a conspiracy theorist who runs her own Ewe Tube channel. She absolutely believes there is a snake amongst them and she doesn't mean Gary. Quan is as lovable as ever, making a reptile whom many are afraid of (not this writer though, I grew up in the country), sweet, thoughtful, and someone you would want as your best friend. His unshakeable faith in Judy, even when she doubts herself, is enough to make you tear up. Patrick Warburton's Brad Winddancer, a movie star turned mayor, is hilarious and just awesome. Kronk has returned but this time he comes with actual theme music and slightly more brain cells.
Goodwin and Bateman are still a golden buddy duo. How their relationship continues to evolve is one of the reasons why these movies work so well. Not only are they learning about each other, but themselves as well. The moments they have to face their own fears and admit what they are actually afraid of is a learning lesson for everyone watching. I don't want to spoil anything, but there is a heart-to-heart moment that is likely to have many adults in the audience relating to one or both of them. And yes you might also feel a little called out by the dialogue. Why yes I do use humor to deflect and? They are the beating heart of this franchise and the team at Disney knows it. I'm all for Zootopia 3 because this can't be the last we see of these two.
As mentioned, Zootopia was about not judging a book but its cover. Zootopia 2 goes a step beyond that to explore how stereotypes can lead to pitting us against one another, instead of celebrating what makes us different and how our various strengths can elevate our shared community. Racism and prejudice are once again discussed in the film, with a healthy dose of generational theft thrown in as well. The wealthy, in this case the Lynx Family, will stop at nothing to maintain the status quo and promote the ill-will one group may feel towards another, all in service to their ultimate goal of consolidating power. There is also the pressure Judy feels as a trailblazer to be perfect while Nick struggles to still be seen as something more than a thieving fox. These may seem like lofty topics for a kids' movie but the first one tackled a lot of these as well. The simple, kid-friendly messaging opens the door for younger children to ask important questions. Plus, at the end of the day, learning (or being reminded of) empathy and kindness is never a bad thing.
Verdict
Zootopia 2 is a purrfect squeak-quel, with all the beloved animal antics, charm, humor, and whodunit thrills as the original. The new and returning cast are outstanding in their roles, whether they have a lot of screen time or are just relegated to a post credit scene (yes it is worth staying for). The animation is beautiful, the puns are punny, and it wears its heart on its sleeve. Zootopia has a fervent belief that things can change if enough people lead with compassion rather than fear. It might seem a little naive in the world we live in but I like to think these critters are on to something and maybe we can all try to live more like Judy, Gary, and their friends.
Zootopia 2 is in theaters now. It is rated PG for action/violence and rude humor with a runtime of 1 hour 48 minutes.
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