Disney’s reliance on annual remakes has frustrated me and many others with their apparent lack of ability to tap into new creative ideas. I realize a sequel isn’t the optimal vehicle for originality, but when a sequel surpasses the original in entertainment value and introduces imaginative world-building that yields a sense of wonder for kids and adults alike, that’s something I can get behind. Zootopia 2 is all of that and more.
What stands out immediately about Zootopia 2 is the tonal shift to a heightened comedy. Zootopia (2016) was mostly bright and colorful, featuring plenty of humor. But it also had a notable stretch of dire visual and thematic darkness that felt like a departure from the vibe that was initially established. It’s one of the reasons why I didn’t love the original.
But Zootopia 2 is the funniest Disney animated film I’ve seen in years. It’s laugh-out-loud funny; chock-full of silly gags and increased meta cultural humor that should have parents chuckling in their seats. There’s a very clever and funny reference to The Shining in the third act that really stuck with me; in addition to a bit about confirming your identity when logging on to any website. My wife Jalisa almost spit out her Diet Coke during that part.
Since the conclusion of the first story, Judy Hopps (Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Bateman) are ZPD partners conducting an investigation to unravel the conspiracy that has resulted in reptiles being ostracized from civil Zootopia society; snakes in particular are irrationally feared via organized propaganda by the powerful Lynxley (Lynx) family who are trying to maintain their power by wrongfully vilifying a species for their own gain. Thematically, Zootopia 2 doubles down on the core idea from the first film that made it a potent storytelling force for belonging: fear is driven by what we don’t understand, and is especially dangerous when it comes to classes of people (or animals). In this age of poisonous vilification of immigrants, these notions feel more relevant and powerful than ever. Don’t be an asshole to others because they’re different, folks!
What gelled so well with the humor and Zootopia 2‘s biggest accomplishments was original, creative and imaginative world-building of the unique ecosystems in which the animals inhabit. My absolute favorite part is when Judy and Nick encounter “Marsh Market” on their journey. It’s a hot and humid wetland where all the outcast reptiles and amphibians find solace. Visually and conceptually, it was pure joy to see all the mechanics of this ecosystem come to life. Fascinating, engaging and hysterical. And not to mention often thrilling via a surprising level of spectacular action-adventure set pieces. THIS is the elusive Disney imagination I want. I wish they would get back to this level of original creative execution more often.
Zootopia 2 is a fantastic sequel and addition to the Disney Animation Studios portfolio. It is too long. There are spots where plot points or transitions between plot points drag, and could have been cut to greater effect. But in the end, this is easily one of the best animated films of the year and the most interesting Disney animated film in years.
