Rating: 3.5/5
Synopsis:
It’s been nine years since “Zootopia” exploded at the box office. After many years of waiting, audiences finally get their sequel! The film kicks off right after the events of the first, where Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are officially partners at the Zootopia Police Department. Despite their accomplishments, they still struggle to work as a unit. Through trial and error, they realize that their differences are abundant. But when a snake emerges in the city, they are forced to work together and put their differences aside. As they continue their investigation, they realize an underground city of reptiles exists. This forces them to grapple with a conspiracy much larger than anticipated. Can Judy and Nick put aside their differences and come together for Zootopia once again?
Positives:
I’ll admit I’m not as big of a fan of the original film as most are. It is a fun, clever little movie that provides a thrilling mystery and likable characters. However, I found the messaging so on the nose that it was hard to enjoy the rest of the story. But it is still a solid film that family members of all ages can enjoy. “Zootopia 2” is more of the same. It features excellent animation, allowing each of the characters to have distinct expressions and detail. Their unique attributes shine once again, where Nick and Judy are trying their best to see their differences as an asset rather than a hurdle. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman add lots of personality to the characters as they navigate their new journey as partners. But the new supporting characters make a statement, specifically Gary De’Snake. Ke Huy Quan is a wonderful choice to voice Gary. His kind nature radiates through the character as he tries to clear his family name, forcing Judy and Nick to once again look beneath the surface to solve this troubling case. I also enjoyed the many references to other films, specifically a hilarious nod to “The Shining” during the climax.
Another impressive attribute is the creative worldbuilding. Although it doesn’t have as many fresh animal related towns, Marsh Market proves to be a welcome addition to this expanded world. We see an underground community of reptiles keeping to themselves due to their troubled past in the city. We also learn how the influential Lynxley family’s work in the city has influenced this perception of reptiles. Their history or creating different climate/habitat specific regions begins to rear its ugly head as Nick and Judy learn more about the reptile community. The mystery is once again impressive for a kid’s film, providing exciting chase sequences and detective work sure to please fans of the original. Shakira gives families another great original song to keep them grooving as they enjoy the film together. The message is slightly less intense which is a welcomed change. It’s still there no doubt, but it allows audiences a better chance to experience these ideas rather than have it blatantly stated throughout the film.
Negatives:
My feelings about “Zootopia 2” largely mirror those of the original. It is a film that plays it safe as far as plot decisions go. While the film shines in expanding the animal environments and the relationship between our leads, it fails to deliver a story that feels distinct from the first. The mystery isn’t quite as intriguing as the first, largely exploring the same themes of prejudice, not judging a book by its cover, and finding a way to coexist together. The story unfolds with a twist villain and similar evolution of events. I’m surprised after a nine year gap between films that the story seems to lack a sense of distinction outside of new characters being introduced. I also didn’t completely buy into Judy and Nick’s conflict as the story only takes place one week after the original. The premise is built around their teamwork as partners and a growing sense of care for one another. As they break down barriers and face vulnerabilities together, their sentimental moments don’t always feel organic. If the story had progressed and given them a few years together (as the film took nine years to make) then these moments would have felt more impactful. But I feel these feelings were forced in such a short time together because the story needed its signature sentimental moments.
Conclusion:
“Zootopia 2” is a great adventure for families to take during the holiday season. It provides enough laughs and gags to keep younger viewers entertained while continuing to explore ideas that adults will enjoy. The animation is top notch and the new characters give viewers new reasons to get excited about the world of “Zootopia”. I do wish the film took a different approach from the original instead of copying the thematic elements and story format. Nick and Judy’s dynamic (while very enjoyable) felt rushed to get their feelings for another established. Perhaps a longer stretch between the first and second’s events could have helped this issue. But families will enjoy the film anyway, allowing for exciting escapism during the holiday season.