By: Dana Jacoviello
Zootopia 2 was relatable for the times we are currently going through with themes of relationships, communication issues, acceptance of those different and embracing diversity in one living space. It also focuses on preventing those different than us from equality and living the life they deserve. The film is refreshing and lighthearted but still gets the message across of opening our minds and hearts to each other without prejudice, judgment or assumption. Many lies are told to keep reptiles out of Zootopia and we find out something pretty big that will change Zootopia forever. Who truly created the beauty of Zootopia and will they get it back?
The beginning is a bit confusing, considering where we left off. It seems Judy Hoops (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) are having partner issues as we start on this new adventure. They, of course, jump into a new case as rookies that does not make Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) too happy. They set out to prove who the real bad guys are and find out they are chasing a reptile, something that hasn’t been seen in Zootopia for years due to the fact they believe and were taught they are bad. The reptiles aren’t actually the immigrants. Those who created Zootopia originally were to accept all and live together in harmony.
I do not have any major favorite scenes, but I will say that as the movie goes on the scenes get more fascinating, funny and surprising. I love when Judy and Nick have serious scenes considering Nick always has a hard time with being serious due to his childhood trauma. The bonding moments always send a powerful message that is relatable in today’s world, but the sarcasm and laughable moments are noteworthy! Shakira kills it in this movie with her music artistry as always! Enough said. A huge shout out to Ke Huy Quan who plays Gary De’Snake and Fortune Feimster as Nibbles Maplestick! Both epic additions to the cast. They both do a phenomenal job as new main characters in Zootopia 2!
Director Jared Bush and Byron Howard are new to me. Or maybe I just do not know I have seen their work. Very possible. I will say they should continue to create animations that are unique and meaningful in every way.
Thank you for the message in Zootopia 2! This film beautifully tells the story of leaving communities out due to lies and false accusations, stealing of what doesn’t belong to them and the bad people who are not who you think or they say they are. And, as usual, all will eventually lead to the truth. Sound familiar?