The theater lights dim, the smell of buttered popcorn filling the room, as two of the most beloved animated characters fill the screen once again.
The long awaited Zootopia sequel was released on November 26th, nine whole years after the first installment. Eager fans filed into theaters on Thanksgiving weekend, with the audience comprising of older fans of the first movie and children alike.
Zootopia 2 featured a familiar cast of characters, including the iconic fox and bunny duo, Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) and Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin). The sequel picks up right where Zootopia ended, with Hopps and Wilde joining the Zootopia Police Department as partners. However, their partnership is disrupted by disagreements between the two as a snake, Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan), is discovered within the mammal-inhabited city, the first reptile in to be seen in Zootopia in decades.
As Hopps and Wilde go behind the ZPD’s back to investigate the case, they uncover a hidden conspiracy surrounding Zootopia’s most affluent and influential family, and must examine their commitment to each other and the good of Zootopia’s animals.
Not only did the sequel introduce an eclectic gang of new characters, including Gary De’Snake, Pawbert Lynxley (Andy Samberg), and Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster), the audience got a look into a whole new side of the Zootopia universe with the introduction of reptilian animals.
Zootopia 2 featured a new song titled “Zoo” by Shakira, who reprised her role as Zootopia pop star Gazelle. The energetic track reminded viewers of Shakira’s hit from the first movie, “Try Everything”.
A standout feature of the first movie was its social commentary on racial prejudice, using mammalian predators to represent marginalized communities. The sequel continues this social commentary, this time exploring themes of gentrification and classism. Zootopia’s affluent Lynxley family is revealed to be behind the disappearance of all reptiles from the city, forcing them to leave their homes as the Lynxleys make their fortune from a reptile invention; the storyline mirrors critical issues that plague our society.
Along with the significant themes of marginalization, this movie gave a refreshing take on collaboration and partnership, expressing that true partners believe in each other and their goals while not being afraid to share their worries with one another.
An integral scene in Zootopia 2 was the heartfelt conversation between Hopps and Wilde, a moment that pulled the heartstrings of viewers as they watched a bunny and a fox reveal genuine affection for each other.
Online reactions regarding the movie mainly circled around the unconfirmed but heavily implied romantic angle of Hopps’ and Wilde’s relationship. Besides the previously mentioned confession, the two also disguised themselves as a married couple for an undercover operation. Moments like these have garnered a sizable fanbase for a romantic relationship between Hopps and Wilde.
Overall, Zootopia 2 was a very well-received movie, gaining praise for its discussions of prevalent societal themes while still appealing to younger audiences. Hitting one billion dollars in the box office on December 12th, according to CNBC, was a recent milestone for this film.
As for a third installment, the post-credits scene featured a feather, hinting that the next movie will center around birds. In this movie, viewers can expect another wild journey that doesn’t shy away from addressing real world issues.