Reviews
Zootopia 2
As sequels go, few films are as deserving as Zootopia of a second outing. Nine years after our first journey to the city, Disney has finally brought us back for another adventure with our favourite bunny Judy Hopps and the ever cunning fox Nick Wilde. In an era where follow ups often prioritise money over merit, it is a relief to say that Zootopia 2 avoids that trap and offers another thrilling and warmhearted visit to the vibrant metropolis.
To wait as long as we have for an inevitable continuation did leave me slightly anxious. The world is a far stranger and more unpredictable place than it was almost a decade ago, and I would be lying if I said I did not fear that Zootopia 2 might play things overly safe in the climate we are in now. Co writers Jared Bush (who also directs), and Byron Howard quickly proved those worries unfounded. What they deliver is a second offering that, for the most part, stands proudly beside the original while embracing a surprisingly weighty message and offering affectionate nods to several classic films.
As mentioned earlier, nine years is a long time between chapters. Zootopia 2 wastes no time bringing viewers back to Judy (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick (Jason Bateman), in a lively opening that shows them serving as full officers in the Zootopia Police Department. Their earlier achievements are still not enough to sway some of the more seasoned members of the force. After a chaotic case goes badly wrong, and with the Zootennial celebration of one hundred years of peace fast approaching, Chief Bogo (Idris Elba), finds himself considering the unthinkable which is the possibility of splitting up the partnership.
The Zootennial has only been made possible by the creation of the weather wall, a clever innovation that provides every climate within a single city and allows all species to live side by side. It is also the central pillar of the story, as the entire civilisation believes it was created by Ebeneezer Lynxley. His ancestors, particularly Milton Lynxley (David Strathairn), are determined to keep that belief intact. Through Milton and his political scheming and intimidation, many viewers will undoubtedly be reminded of a certain current president, in what becomes an uncomfortably accurate portrayal of the misuse of power.
These very same Lynxley ancestors were also responsible for claiming that a viper attacked their tortoise butler many years ago, a lie that led to the banishment of every reptile from Zootopia, with most citizens have never laid eyes on one. That changes when Gary De Snake (Ke Huy Quan), slips into the city determined to clear the reptile name and reveal the truth behind Zootopia’s creation. Judy and Nick believe his story and offer their help, and with added support from the wildly eccentric conspiracy podcast host Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster), and even one of the Lynxley ancestors, Pawbert (Andy Samberg), Gary finally has a real chance to restore the reputation of his entire species.
Naturally, it is never as simple as heroes saving the day or everyone being as loyal to the cause as they first seem. Zootopia 2 is filled with entertaining surprises that offer a wild and enjoyable experience for the whole family. I will let you discover those moments yourselves, because much like the first film, the sequel delivers a compelling and frequently hilarious trip to the cinema. The animation is some of the finest you will see all year, and the vibrant colour palette produces several genuinely breathtaking scenes along with plenty of energetic action, especially during the car chases that welcome back more than a few familiar faces.
Yet as with the first film, the true heart of the story lies in the relationship between Judy and Nick. The excitement of tackling their biggest case to date forms the main narrative, but the quieter thread that follows two partners learning to understand one another and growing together is genuinely touching and arguably the strongest element of the entire film. It is impossible not to root for them from start to finish, and although the buddy cop formula has been used countless times before, there is something about Judy and Nick that feels fresher and far more believable than most, even with their animated forms.
With a gripping mystery, memorable characters, and thoughtfully delivered messaging that will resonate with audiences of all ages, Zootopia 2 is a shining example of how a sequel should be made. I normally dislike post credits teasers hinting at yet another instalment, but if future chapters maintain this level of quality, then I say bring them on. We may well be looking at the front runner for best animated feature of the year.
