Disney returned to classic form in 2016 with the critically-acclaimed, billion-dollar grossing film, Zootopia. Don't let the talking animals fool you into thinking this is a "kids movie" you can turn your brain off for. Instead, you'll discover an entertaining and discussion-worthy film for all ages. With stunning animation, witty writing, memorable characters, and a unique storytelling angle, this just might become one of your new favorites. This review is Spoiler-Free so you can go and soak it in for yourself. Zootopia is currently streaming on Disney Plus.
Our main protagonist is Judy Hopps, a small-town rabbit who dreams of becoming the first police officer of her kind. She makes her way to the big city of Zootopia, a gleaming, bustling metropolis completely inhabited by walking, talking animals with no human in sight. Although she is successful in becoming a cop, she struggles to gain respect from her peers. After a number of animals mysteriously disappear, Judy uses this an opportunity to prove herself to her fellow officers and those back home. After a chance encounter with Nick Wilde, a charming, con-artist fox, Judy enlists his help to find those who are missing. What they uncover will not only test their personal relationship but the very social fabric of the city itself. As fear grips the population, can everyone learn to get along before it's too late?
Pun intended but let's go ahead and address the elephant in the room: Yes, this family film contains themes of prejudice, bias and judging others before we truly get to know them. While I certainly understand why you might be cautious after hearing something like that, trust me, the film is handled maturely.
I disagree when people say the film's message is timely, I say it's timeless. Big difference. We all have some growing to do. All of us..this isn't a new concept. This film isn't about politics, I promise. Just watch it for yourself and see.
This movie brings out the kid in me due to the challenge of creating a world that accommodates anthropomorphic mammals of all shapes and sizes. Zootopia is presented as a city with 12 distinct, climate-controlled environments so the respective species can feel comfortable. Polar bears live in Tundratown, mice live in Little Rodentia and jaguars live in the Rainforest District. You get the idea. Then you have your downtown, skyscraper-filled center filled with imaginative architecture that looks like it was made by animals, not people. Also, the animal species are animated to be accurate in size to their real-life counterparts. So giraffes still tower above everyone else and mice still scurry around. Watch out for sight gags such as variously sized public transit, vehicles, advertising and neighborhoods. As someone who has studied sociology, I applaud the filmmaking team for the effort and depth that went into creating a fantastical, yet recognizable society.
Fun fact: the voice cast was chosen based on the actor or actress already having a similar vibe to the respective character/species. For the most part, they were told to use their natural speaking voice, and it totally works. The result is a perfectly cast film that elevates the characters to fandom status. Ginnifer Goodwin is winning as the cheerfully determined Judy. As Nick, Jason Bateman steals the show by effortlessly switching from sarcastic to heartfelt. Jenny Slate, Idris Elba and Alan Tudyk all nail it. Just brilliant, natural acting on all fronts. Whether it's laugh out loud funny or tear-jerking touching, the cast delivers.
From a technical perspective, I notice yet another hidden gem in the background with each additional viewing. Computer animation really has come a long way so feel free to hit pause and appreciate. The beautiful locations and intricately designed characters are blended seamlessly. The sound mixing and design are transportive. Although this is Disney's second-longest animated film, the pacing moves along thoughtfully. The many meta-references are also placed in a non-abrasive manner.
I always appreciate when an original song is woven into the story without feeling forced. "Try Everything" is performed by musical artist Shakira. She sings in the film by voicing Zootopia's favorite pop star, Gazelle. This isn't a musical, but the one song it has is a legitimately catchy tune that you won't be able to get out of your head. Even better, the lyrics work perfectly for the plot but are appealing enough for the masses to appreciate without ever having seen the film. For example, we all need a reminder sometimes that finishing in even last place is okay as long as you do your best. Good stuff, I'll provide a link below!
I can't get into the themes too much because it'd easily be spoiled, but I do want to ask y'all a few questions. Has anyone ever told you that your dreams are unrealistic? Have you ever been tempted to give up trying to convince others you're more than your appearance? Have you ever been the butt of a joke that you feel crossed the line? Have you ever said something that hurt someone you cared about even though you meant well? These questions all address hurtful things others say to you or you to them and yet each one is explored in this family film.
Right quick, I will say that while I love this film, there are a couple of lines spoken by Shakira's character that honestly seem contradictory to the rest of the film's themes. These lines do not derail the plot by any means but they are out of place. Other than this, I believe the filmmakers consistently walk the line between having a conversation and teaching a lesson quite gracefully.
Have you ever put your dream on a pedestal only to realize it is way more complicated than you previously thought? One of the reasons why Zootopia is one of my favorite Disney films is because the filmmakers are actually brave enough to tell the audience that we all make mistakes and have limitations. Real life is honestly pretty messy. While that might seem negative at first, those universal complications can actually remind us that we have a lot in common...in that none of us are perfect. It's not your typical message and I honestly respect that.
As our protagonists learn, you'll begin to respect your fellow man (or animal), no matter how they look on the outside, when you realize that they too live a complicated life. Truly understanding one another is never an easy road to go down, but you've gotta try. If you do try and keep trying...the world will become a better place.
I know I learned a lot from Zootopia so I
encourage you to watch it with both your family and friends. I give Zootopia an A-.
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