A Return to Zootopia
Zootopia was a film that surprised many, delivering an entertaining talking animal movie with impressive social commentary, especially regarding racial prejudice. Its success, both critically and financially, made it surprising that it took nearly a decade for a proper follow-up, not counting the Disney+ shorts. However, Zootopia 2 has finally arrived, bringing back the entertainment but with a less impactful message this time around.
The story picks up with bunny cop Judy Hopps and former street-hustling fox Nick Wylde, just a week after the events of the first film. Now partners at the Zootopia Police Department, their contrasting personalities lead to chaos in the city, resulting in them being sent to “Partners in Crisis” therapy. As the town prepares for its centennial celebration, Judy discovers a clue pointing to the return of a snake, the first reptile to appear in Zootopia since they were exiled a century ago.
Gary De’Snake, a viper with a fantastic name, arrives to steal a journal detailing the creation of the city’s climate-controlling weather walls, currently held by the high-society Lynxley clan. A series of misunderstandings leads the patriarch, Milton Linxley, to accuse Judy and Nick of working with the snake, branding them as fugitives. The duo must track down Gary, who wants to use the journal to clear the reptiles’ reputation.
Creative World-Building and Fun Cameos
Zootopia 2 retains much of what made the first film so enjoyable. The movie is a feast of creative world-building and stunning animation. The varied environments of Zootopia are filled with visual gags and animal puns. There's even an extended homage to a classic horror film during one of the chase scenes, which had me laughing out loud.
The film is also packed with fun, "blink and you'll miss it" cameos from Hollywood stars. Quinta Brunson appears as the ZPD's quokka therapist Dr. Fuzzby, while WWE wrestlers CM Punk and Roman Reigns play fratty zebra cops named the Zebros. Michael J. Fox even makes a cameo as a prisoner named...Michael J. The Fox. One of my favorites is Patrick Warburton as Brian Winddancer, a vain former action star turned mayor. His performances bring consistent laughs.
Returning characters like Shakira's gazelle, Idris Elba's police chief Bogo, and the sloth Flash add to the film's charm. The dynamic between Judy and Nick remains strong, with Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman maintaining their chemistry despite the long break.
Supporting Characters and Themes
However, some of the newer supporting characters left me feeling indifferent. Nibbles Maplestick, a conspiracy theorist beaver, offers rapid-fire comedy that sometimes misses the mark. Gary, the main antagonist, feels underdeveloped, with most of his dialogue serving as exposition. The Lynxleys, the antagonists, are largely forgettable, except for Andy Samberg's Pawbert, who shows sympathy towards the protagonists.
The original Zootopia tackled prejudice in a way that was accessible for all audiences through predator and prey stereotypes. While Zootopia 2 attempts similar themes, focusing on colonial erasure, it lacks the depth of the first film. The message of acceptance and kindness is present, but it's primarily shown through Judy and Nick's partnership. The reptiles' story feels more like a plot device than a central focus.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Zootopia 2 is an okay sequel to a great film. It has enough fun and humor to entertain the whole family, but it feels surprisingly toothless compared to its predecessor. At least it's better than some recent Disney animated sequels. I hope Zootopia 3 can restore the balance that's missing here.
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