‘Zootopia 2’ is now in theaters

Category: Movies

 

The highly anticipated sequel to the beloved 2016 animated film Zootopia is now playing in theaters, with the original actors voicing the characters they brought to the screen nine years ago. As with the original, Zootopia 2 is an instant classic in the animated genre.

Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) is still the over-enthusiastic police bunny who, in the original film, teamed with the street-wise fox Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman). They are still partners but are the rookies in the department.

Zootopia is a utopian world with animals of all kinds inhabiting the lands, with a weather wall dividing the various climates making each location comfortable for the different animals. The wall was thought to be the invention of the Lynxley family, but as Judy surmises, there is something amiss with the whole history.

Judy and Nick, who reluctantly goes along with her, set out to find what is happening now after Judy sees a snake in the area. Snakes are not allowed in Zootopia. Their history of mischief and murder make reptiles persona non grata and they have been exiled to a separate place. 

Judy and Nick join with Gary De ‘Snake (voiced by Ke Huy Quan) to set the record straight and uncover the nefarious plot by the Lynxley family. While they are specifically forbidden to take on the case, thanks to Judy’s exuberance and dedication to the job, she talks Nick into following the clues.

This leads them on a wild and dangerous journey where they encounter a myriad of characters, old and new. Flash the sloth has a fun scene. Chief Bongo (Idris Elba), 

Dawn Bellwether, Duke Weaselton, Mr. Big, Fru Fru, and Yax also return in this adorable sequel.

Disney does sequels almost better than anyone and this is a prime example. Zootopia 2 is just as entertaining and delightful as the original.

Besides the fun story, the film has plenty of nods to other movies, as well as a scene where the Matterhorn from Disneyland is seen. As for the Easter Eggs, look for nods to The Little Mermaid, Star Wars, Ratatouille, Frozen, and more. The movie is rife with Easter Eggs.

Zootopia 2 is a pure delight from start to finish. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork, trust, and doing the right thing. 

Judy Hopps is a character that brings out the best in others, even though it takes a while for them to realize it. She is steadfast in her determination to bring down criminals and bring justice those who have been wronged, and in this film she does that, with the help of Nick, Gary, and a few others who assist her in making things right.

Zootopia 2 is rated PG for action/violence and rude humor.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.