From betrayal to troubled relationships, “Zootopia 2″crams it all into another joke-filled, fast-paced thrill ride.
As the sequel to Disney’s wildly popular “Zootopia” (2016), directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush developed another historically successful film, with similar social themes and humor, whilst continuing to expand the “Zootopian” world.
“Zootopia 2” follows the cunning fox, Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), and cheeky bunny, Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), shortly after the first film, when they saved Zootopia from former Assistant Mayor Bellwether (Jenny Slate). The ambitious duo causes concern for Police Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) after destroying parts of Zootopia in extravagant attempts to save the city from various low-threat crimes. However, when Hopps finds a clue to a long-lasting case, she and Nick are given one last chance to solve the mystery to avoid being split up.
Behind all the action-packed scenes, “Zootopia 2” builds on deeper social themes such as inclusivity and discrimination existing from the first movie. Specifically, it focuses on the exile of reptiles, which mirrors the discrimination against predators and harmful stereotypes in the first movie. Across both films, the Zootopia franchise reinforces the idea that prejudice and stereotypes are harmful, yet individuals can challenge them through courage and empathy, inching closer to a society that matches the city’s slogan of “anyone can be anything.”
Continuous with the first film, the animation is stunning, capturing all the exciting and vibrant corners of the massive city. It even introduces new places, like the bustling water district of Marsh Market, in addition to the districts we already know. The audience is also transported to a flowering mountaintop, a scorching desert, and a beautifully crystallized snow village. Specifically relating to the animation of the characters, the fur for each character is animated with a new software called “Igroom.” According to “fxguide,” this software was developed and used specifically for the “Zootopia” franchise.
On a musical note, “Zoo,” performed by Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, matched the utopian vibe of the movie with a cheerful and catchy melody.
Another aspect of the film is a heavy reliance on references and direct nods to other films, including Disney films such as Ratatouille (2007), the popular Star Wars show The Mandalorian (2019-2023), and The Shining(1980). Although these easter eggs sprinkled through the film are captivating, they feel completely out of place in the story and feel as though they are there merely to grab attention.
Relating to the characters, the relationship between the bunny Judy Hopps and the fox Nick Wilde evolves throughout the movie. Although Nick always enjoyed working with Judy, he maintains his stone-cold nonchalant exterior, which is the polar opposite of Judy’s heroic and adventurous nature. However, as soon as they shared their insecurities, they fixed their relationship, showing the importance of trust and communication.
While the new film’s mystery was intriguing, we were never left bored or confused; it lacked the payoff and satisfaction of the first film’s twist. The first movie left audiences in shock as it revealed that the seemingly meek and unassuming mayor, who even tried to help Hopps and Wilde, was behind a major plot to destroy the city, a “twist villain.” But “Zootopia 2” had the same plot twist — an ostensibly kind character double-crosses the heroes. While it is well-executed with the right amount of surprise, it wasn’t alluded to much at all, and doesn’t evoke a unique response, given that the same twist had been done in the previous movie.
According to Palo Alto High School junior Siena Siljak, nostalgic for her favorite childhood movie, she viewed “Zootopia 2” the day after it came out.
“I thought it was a really good movie,” Siljak said. “Usually, when a movie sequel comes out, it’s not as good, but this one was really close in quality to the first. I thought the character arcs were really in-depth, and the plot twist was so unexpected. I would recommend it.”
Despite the reused plot twist, “Zootopia 2” is well executed and brings comedy, emotion, and new species to animal lovers of all ages.
According to “Movie Web,” “Zootopia 2” has grossed over $900 million so far, almost guaranteeing it to be Disney’s next billion-dollar movie. “Zootopia 2” has also been historically successful globally. It is now the second-highest-grossing American movie in China.
It’s safe to say “Zootopia 2” was a hit as a sequel, and due to its immense success in theaters, it prompts a possible third installment in the “Zootopia” franchise.
“Zootopia 2”
1 hour, 48 minutes
Rated PG
Directed by Byron Howard and Jared Bush.
