"I think maybe we are too different."
Nine years is a lifetime for most mammals—especially hares and foxes. But for an Oscar-winning animated franchise, it's just enough time between thoughtful, purposeful installments. In 2016, Disney's Zootopia embodied current social issues, showcasing vulnerable species that overcame social stigmas to coexist and bring peace and order to the town. Now, amid a vastly different real-world backdrop, the film's well-earned sequel turns its attention to a different issue: land sharks.
It's hard to say more without revealing key moments from the cleverly crafted story. And I refuse to play spoiler. But Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman are back as Hopps and Wilde, respectively. As our unlikely duo sets out as a solidified pair on the force, things are not as clear-cut as one would expect following their successful take down of Assistant Mayor Dawn Bellwether.
While nine years have passed in the real world, very little time has elapsed in Zootopia. Think weeks (or even days). And as the film embraces the grungy detective story approach, it refuses to abandon its core intent: family entertainment.
Compared to its predecessor, Zootopia 2 is more of a buddy cop comedy, embracing adult themes that lend the film a bit of social relevance, backed by a crowd of fun visuals that entertain the younger viewers. It isn't Shrek in terms of its four-quadrant appeal, but it employs the same philosophy to similar effects.
Though the duo had tremendous success uncovering a conspiracy in the first film, Chief Bogo (Idris Elba), the husky Buffalo in charge, isn't entirely convinced of the pairing. And who can blame him? Surrounded by large, cocky officers, they are outliers to the norm. And their single success, while large in context, doesn't represent a pattern. If anything, the pair has gotten more credit than they deserve. Chief Bogo is willing to go along with the plan for now. But all it takes is a single sidestep to throw the situation into chaos. A sidestep that, thanks to Hopps' inability to obey orders, happens quickly, landing our duo on probation.
While audiences have some familiarity with the world these animals call home, Zootopia 2 beautifully expands on that understanding, using trinkets of knowledge to build a broader foundation. Containing four central quadrants (Savanna Center, Sahara Square, Rainforest District, and Tundratown), the town also includes a heap of nooks, crannies, and hidden corners that viewers haven't yet been made privy to. And while we know that high-tech climate walls allow polar bears to live near zebras and camels, the mere fact that they can coexist doesn't mean every species is welcome.
Even our two protagonists struggle to share the same air. Wilde, a natural-born loner, doesn't care about much, if anything. Meanwhile, Hopps often cares too much, longing for control as she meddles endlessly, working to fix and adjust everything to her liking. Their stark differences are why they must attend a hilarious "Partners in Crisis" therapy group as part of their ongoing probation.
While the original film focused on prejudice, discrimination, and societal biases, this sequel dives into the importance of respect and acceptance. On the surface, this might seem bland. Still, co-directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard successfully weave real-world dynamics into Hopps and Wilde's dysfunctional partnership, giving the film a relevant, timely feel. Almost like newlyweds, they have to work through their differences, accept each other's faults, and learn to love and admire the other for what they bring to the table.
Compassion and empathy go a long way, and Zootopia 2, though a family comedy first and foremost, works to highlight teachable moments behind the belly laughs and loud visuals. They are far from perfect, and occasionally a bit too hard-pressed, but the effort remains strong from start to finish as the creators attempt to make a film with a meaningful message.
An already robust cast is made even more potent with a handful of high-caliber additions. While both Andy Samberg and Fortune Frimster make lasting impressions, Ke Huy Quan leads the newcomers as Gary De'Snake, a reptile who educates viewers about the gruesome, horrific history their species has endured in Zootopia. And while this film once again hints at prejudice and inequality, at least here, characters appear to learn (and grow) from their past mistakes.
While 2016's Zootopia beat Moana for the Oscar, I'm not convinced it needed a sequel. But the creative team did right with the opportunity. A fresh, fun, family adventure with meaning and intention, Hopps and Wilde prove to be worth the time. And while we get reptiles here, the franchise still has room to grow. The only question that remains is whether we'll have to wait another decade for a follow-up.
