Perspective
Spoilers ahead
After eight years, the bunny and fox duo of Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) made a recent return to theaters with “Zootopia 2.”
In a story that is equal parts amusing and engaging, the Disney animated sequel shows more of the Zootopia world as Judy and Nick find themselves on another adventure full of ups and downs. The film’s debut reflects its appeal, as it took in more than $556 million globally over Thanksgiving weekend and scored the “second biggest Thanksgiving opening ever,” according to Rotten Tomatoes.
Sequels are usually hit or miss, and while “Zootopia 2” was inevitable, it is anything but a miss. Take its 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter. Viewers are enjoying the new story, and it is easy to see why.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes, the story starts roughly where the original film left off. Judy and Nick have gained minor celebrity status after solving a case from the first film, and their newfound confidence leads them to believe they can single-handedly take down any case. Acting recklessly during a specific sting, they get taken out of the field by Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) and put into a “Partners in Crisis” therapy group. While on probation, Judy believes she’s found a new conspiracy to investigate, and she drags Nick along with her.
Her suspicion pays off, as we are finally introduced to the scaley blue critter whose face has been featured on several of the film’s posters, Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan). In search of an important book, Gary crashes the Zootennial Gala, and Judy and Nick try to stop him. Without knowing his full story, the assumption is the snake is out to attack the wealthy Lynxleys family to get the book, though what is revealed is a deeper truth to Gary’s doings, and in true Judy nature, she follows the underdog to discover his side of the story.
Gary becomes a sweet, lovable new character, and it is refreshing to see a film divert from the villain trope that snakes usually serve. Viewers are also introduced to the beaver podcaster Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster), whose quirky nature is an interesting addition to the group. She not only aids Judy and Nick while they are on the run, but she also serves up comedic relief. Focus is also put onto the Lynx family, mainly Milton Lynxley’s (David Strathairn) youngest son, Pawbert (Andy Samberg).
Quan delivers an outstanding performance as Gary, and his charismatic moments help fill some of the gaps within the story’s plot. His emotionally-charged voice acting during the film’s more intense scenes are compelling and adds significant depth to the film.
The film’s animation is also stunning, from the liveliness of Zootopia to the newly revealed areas of the city. References to iconic pop culture moments, such as Ylvis’ 2013 hit “The Fox (What Does the Fox Say)?” and the hedge maze from the 1980 classic “The Shining” provided plenty of amusement within the film’s chaos. Without spoilers, the film’s plot twist of one of the new characters was unexpected, and delivers jaw-dropping shock value.
“Zootopia 2” is a great sequel that touches on real world issues such as displacement, corruption and wealth. Although things settle back into everyone being happy once more in the end, the film still does the job of addressing topics that some other animated children films would overlook. The plot succeeds in keeping viewers engaged while providing content for fans who have been waiting to see these characters on the big screen again. The post credit scene also offers hope of there being more adventures for Judy and Nick, and leaves viewers excited for what’s next.
