‘Zootopia 2’ Review: A Long Awaited Sequel to a Modern Disney Classic

Olivia Romesburg ‘27 / Emertainment Monthly Staff Writer

In a world where cash grab sequels are filling the theaters, Zootopia 2 stands out as a good one. 

This heartfelt sequel came to theaters on November 26th — but still be prepared for spoilers ahead, as we uncover what makes Zootopia 2 work. 

To start, the film follows the same basic structure as the original, an adventurous mystery full of plot twists: The dynamic officer duo, rabbit Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and fox Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman), have to use unconventional methods to solve a mystery while also exploring their colorful home city of  Zootopia. 

There are many unexpected turns on their adventure, as the two cops have to seek out help from other animals, and face corruption within their government. In the first film, power imbalances are explored between species in society and within government; in Zootopia 2, animals face the same challenges, as certain species continue to be viewed as “more important” than others. 

 The film brings back beloved characters from the first movie, such as buffalo Chief Bogo, music-obsessed cheetah Officer Clawhauser, pop star Gazelle (voiced by Shakira), and ironically-named sloth Flash. Throughout the film, we are also introduced to new characters such as Gary De’Snake (voiced by Oscar winner Ke Huy Quan), whose family is framed for a murder, resulting in an entire reptile neighborhood of Zootopia disappearing. Further additions to the lineup include beaver podcast host Nibbles Maplestick (voiced by Fortune Feimster), and bumbling lynx Pawbert Lynxley (voiced by Andy Samberg), as well as celebrity cameos from Michael J. The Fox (voiced by Michael J. Fox) and Robert Furwin (voiced by Robert Irwin).

Though all of these characters are a wonderful addition to the franchise, Gary and Nibbles — who really wants to know whether snakes wear half a pair of pants or one long sock — really take the cake. 

The movie continues with complex villains that make the film work. The Linxleys are a very rich family that is credited with making Zootopia’s famed weather walls, which allow the city to accommodate many different animals’ climate needs. However, as the film progresses, the family’s legacy and accomplishments begin to come into question. 

This film constantly keeps you on your toes, using a variety of elements such as clever characters and fast-moving plot that help it keep the charm of the original film. Zootopia 2 continues to perform well at the box office — recently becoming the second-highest grossing animated film of all time — and is a wonderful sequel to the already-beloved Zootopia. 

The film has recently gone up for digital purchase on platforms such as Prime Video, and is expected to make its Disney+ debut in late March. Watch it any way you can!