WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
It’s hard to be the little guy (or gal) in a great big world. Trying to get ahead, having people take you seriously, or simply just attempting to fit in–it’s no easy task. And in the world of animals, split between predator and prey, it might be near impossible. That is unless you’re name is Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), a small but determined bunny who is dead set from childhood to overcome the odds and become a full-fledged police officer serving the mega-city of Zootopia. Not exactly encouraged in her pursuits by her parents Bonnie and Stu (Bonnie Hunt and Don Lake), who want her to remain in the quietness of carrot farming, Judy follows her goal in spite of them.
Post-Academy and arriving at her new position in Precinct One, the heart of Zootopia, Judy quickly discovers that the whole nature of predator/prey relationship in the metropolis is quite opposite of what one would expect, with good will and mutual respect amongst the citizenry who would normally be in conflict with one another. Initially assigned to a mundane duty, Judy’s initial experiences ultimately bring her into contact with Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), a fox with a penchant for lying and, well, slyness. Uncovering possible criminal activity that could drastically affect Zootopia’s harmony, the unlikely and usually naturally opposing pair work together to solve the issue and allow Judy to gain the acceptance she’s always wanted.
But, enforcing the law and working together, plus overcoming obstacles and personal differences, can be easier said than done.
Next, my Mind:
When it comes to animation, few can truly hope to ever equal the Mouse House (aka: Disney Studios), and this newest effort directed by Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and Jared Bush (all of whom also assisted in writing the story as well) is no exception to this fact. Filled with the wonderfully playful mix of humor, drama, pathos, and light-hearted but relevant messages on acceptance, achieving your dreams, facing the doubters, and proving yourself capable of accomplishing great things, the film flows along with intention and whimsy, all while providing the lush, vibrant visuals Disney Animation Studios is known for along with the always perfect musical score that dictates the emotional connection and tone of the narrative.
Fantastic voiceovers accompany the extremely clever writing and characters found here, with Goodwin’s spunky and overtly positive achiever Judy bounding from scene to scene effortlessly while desperately trying to put up with the wily Nick, whom Bateman infuses with an excellent sense humorous snarkiness and almost overbearing arrogance that ultimately turns into unanticipated heroism and unshakable loyalty. Absolutely entertaining “appearances” by Idris Elba as the towering, gruff Chief Bogo, J.K. Simmons as Mayor Lionheart, Tommy Chong as a yoga-teaching Yax, Alan Tudyk as the elusive Duke Weaselton, Shakira as the pop star Gazelle, and one of the funniest plays on a classic character voiced by Maurice LaMarche, as Mr. Big, who channels Brando and redefines the concept of being a “dirty rat”.
In total, “Zootopia” exists to be yet another proof positive that Disney still reigns in the animated world and can so consistently deliver these films that deftly provide laughs, lessons, and pure fun for people of all ages time and time again, while successfully delivering a story about a world inhabited by animals that hasn’t gone to the dogs.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
