Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are back in the spectacular world of Zootopia, where anyone can be anything. The original 2016 film was a massive hit and became a modern classic in Disney’s forever-expanding library of animated films. It was only a matter of time before they would release a Zootopia 2. Currently, the film is a financial success, earning over 900 million dollars in the box office already. Those who enjoyed the first film will be glad to know that this one is a worthy successor that does everything a good sequel needs to be.
The Plot
*Spoiler-free, only trailer content referenced
This film focuses on a class of animals that wasn’t present in the first film: reptiles. Judy and Nick are working on a case to help the mysterious Gary ‘De Snake. The story expands on Zootopia’s history and how a community of animals were able to build a city where different species can coexist. In the story, Judy and Nick will have their newly formed partnership as cops severely tested. The two have great chemistry. Its a formula that works, having opposite personalities working together and starting an unlikely friendship. Many Disney fans have been craving another iconic Disney villain some of the best aspects of their classic films. The film has refreshing new villain while still having twists which keeps audiences at the edge of their seats. The movie incorporates an allegory, with reptiles being portrayed as an oppressed group that mammals must learn to accept, reinforcing a strong message of being open-minded.
Cast and Characters
Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Baton returns from the first movie in their respective roles. Zootopia 2 has the majority of its supporting cast from the first movie also return. Sequels have a tendency to sideline characters from the original to focus on new ones, however Zootopia 2 has a good balance of giving spotlight to both old and new faces. The most notable new cast member is Ke Huy Quan who voices the lovable Gary ‘De Snake. The actor has made a comeback in recent years and its clear he had fun portraying his character. Gary is the most empathetic character in the story who everyone is the theater was rooting for.
The film also features Fortune Feimster, Andy Samberg, Patrick Warburton, Quinta Brunson, Danny Treijo, and David Stratharin. Zootopia 2 also contains many celebrity cameos. Usually these can sometimes be distracting and detract from the movie experience. However their appearences are done tastefully where half the time the audience don’t even realize who voiced that character until the credits roll. Still, some good listeners may be able to hear Macaulay Culkin, Brenda Song, John Leguizamo, Nick DiGiovanni, Ed Sheeran, June Squibb, Josh Gad, Michael J. Fox, Robert Irwin, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and many more!
Conclusion
Zootopia 2 was a delightful watch that has to be Disney’s best animated sequel to date. The animation is beautiful, characters are likeable, and it carries a strong message. Its a film that both kids and adults can enjoy which is the best type of film. With the amount of money its making, it could become one of the highest grossing animated films of all time. Go out and see Zootopia 2 for a pleasant time.
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© Walt Disney Animation Studios