In recent years, Disney has been on a decline, releasing dull, formulaic, and clichéd animated films. Competitors like DreamWorks and Sony have started to outshine them in this field. Even their subsidiary Pixar has sometimes overshadowed Disney. However, the release of Zootopia 2 has changed everything. This sequel is not only a great follow-up but also delivers plenty of entertainment value.
The story of Zootopia 2 picks up where the first film left off. Nick (voiced by Jason Bateman) and Judy (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) have been colleagues at the police department for just one week. Their opposing personalities constantly get them into trouble. During an investigation, they uncover a conspiracy targeting a wealthy Lynxley family exhibition. They secretly attend and are shocked to see Gary De’Snake (voiced by Quan Ke Huy), a snake species long banned from Zootopia. Gary insists he is innocent and reveals that snakes have been victims of a long-standing plot. Chaos erupts when the Lynxley family accuses Nick and Judy of colluding with Gary, forcing the duo to go on the run and clear their names.
A Heartwarming Fox and Bunny Romance
Building on the original Zootopia, Disney crafts Nick and Judy’s story like an action-romance movie. Judy is a fresh-faced, passionate rookie cop, while Nick is a sly, seasoned con artist. They are like opposite magnets drawn to each other. Nick turns over a new leaf, dedicating himself to Judy and joining the police force. Yet, Disney keeps insisting they are “just friends.”
Nine years later, the studio still makes audiences swoon over their relationship. The team skillfully weaves in subtle details, from tender glances and gentle gestures to loving expressions, that reveal their deep bond. The plot intensifies as Judy and Nick are chased by their own police department, leading to conflicts and arguments that develop their relationship into something that feels truly romantic.
Romantic and shy moments are sprinkled throughout, giving fans of the fox and bunny pairing plenty to “ship.” The affectionate dialogue is carefully crafted. Disney clearly understands its younger audience, who enjoy the subtle “almost but not quite” romantic tension, and includes many obvious, adorable hints while still officially labeling them as “colleagues,” much to fans’ delight.
The visuals and sound design are another highlight. The studio has refined the colors, character designs, and animation quality. Movements and expressions are smooth and lifelike. The chase and action scenes are thrilling, creative, and unpredictable. Zootopia 2 also explores new areas of the city, from sandy deserts to snowy mountains, lavish mansions to old swamps, painting a vivid miniature America. The soundtrack by Michael Giacchino, combined with an energetic performance by Shakira singing a song she co-wrote with Ed Sheeran, adds memorable flair.
Both Entertaining and Thought-Provoking
Zootopia 2 is a truly entertaining experience. The film is packed with humor, fast pacing, and unexpected twists, yet it allows enough time to develop characters and emotions. Action scenes run throughout the movie, with Nick and Judy constantly on the run and barely catching a breath. Meanwhile, the question of whether Gary the snake is genuinely good or just part of an elaborate scheme keeps viewers intrigued.
The film also draws laughs from the unique traits of its animal characters. Mayor Brian Winddancer (voiced by Patrick Warburton) is a flamboyant former actor, just like his horse species. Flash the sloth (voiced by Raymond S. Persi) is ironically a fast driver with slow brake reflexes. The supporting cast of various animals interact in delightfully quirky and hilarious ways.
Additionally, Disney includes many Easter eggs referencing its own films. In one scene, viewers spot the famous rat hiding in the chef’s hat from the classic Ratatouille (2007). Upcoming Disney releases like Tangled, Frozen 3, and The Mandalorian with Grogu are reimagined with animal twists. Longtime Disney fans will enjoy spotting these clever nods.
Beyond entertainment, the film carries deeper messages that adults will appreciate. Through the Lynxley family, the creators critique how wealthy elites manipulate politics and media. They wield hidden power to spin stories, paint others as villains, and steal credit. Themes of racial discrimination and wealth inequality also appear throughout the story.
Rating: 5/5
Zootopia 2 recalls the style Disney seems to have forgotten. Recently, instead of focusing on family-friendly entertainment, the studio has leaned too heavily into modern social messages. This film strikes a clear balance, letting adults grasp its deeper meanings while kids enjoy the story without worrying about issues like race or gender. This is exactly what animated films should aim for.
