About two years ago, when I was visiting the Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, CA to learn about Big Hero 6, I got a quick glance into the next room over. I noticed sketches of animals standing on on two feet tacked against the wall. Little did I know that those sketches would soon become Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 55th animated feature, Zootopia. I lay it all out there for other families in this detailed Zootopia movie review.
Disney’s Zootopia Movie Review
Zootopia is a bustling city built by animals, for animals. It’s where both predators and prey live together and where “anyone can be anything” according to Judy Hopps, the bunny who dreams of being part of the police force. When a big case comes up, Judy’s job is on the line and she must rely on a natural enemy, a fox named Nick Wilde, to solve the mystery within 48 hours.
The storyline is actually quite deep and it’s non-stop action from start to finish. There’s suspense, some mafia, government corruption, city-wide conspiracies, and more as character fight stereotypes and aim to rise above the prejudices the society around them have adopted. It was as if we were watching a mainstream action / detective movie… except that the entire cast is made up of animated animals in snazzy clothes. Frans, Munchkin, and I were blown away by how solid the film was in terms of plot, character development, and graphics. It’s perfect for the whole family, or even if you don’t have kids.
Top Zootopia Movie Highlights
The Zootopia movie takes a completely different approach than films produced before it. Instead of relying on catchy tunes and slapstick humor, the film draws you into an immersive world and a clever mystery. Seeing how the animals interact and how each everything is specifically designed to fit each species is fascinating. There are five distinct districts that surround the city center: Sahara Square, Tundratown, Rain Forest District, Little Rodentia, and Bunnyburrow. So much detail is packed into each area that a second or third viewing is needed to fully appreciate it.
As for the mystery, it’s not a new concept by any means but the way it plays out in the Zootopia movie presents surprising twists and several unpredictable situations. We loved it! The only warning is that you will want to buy up all the Zootopia merchandise you can find. Judy, Nick, Flash, and the rest of the animals really grow on you and the toys are so cute! I NEED that carrot recorder pen *ahem* I mean I need to get one for my daughter…
Is the Zootopia Movie Right for All Families?
While I think Zootopia is a wonderful film for everyone in the family, parents should note that the film is rated as PG instead of G though. You will notice that the political and racial overtones are very obvious. Other lookouts include two scenes a character is bullied, much of the story takes places at night or in dark settings, and there are tense moments of struggle with animals that have gone wild.
In the trailer above Judy and Nick visit a spa, that happens to be a naturalist club, to acquire clues. That means all of the animals are naked (don’t have clothes on). Since they’re animals, it’s not like you’re seeing anything inappropriate but the positions the animals move in leave much to the imagination. That will all go over kids’ heads though.
Disney’s Zootopia Movie is Now in Theaters!
Zootopia is our new favorite animated film! If you haven’t gotten your ticket to see the Zootopia movie yet, do it. I’m already going to see the movie again tomorrow and will probably see it yet again with friends. The 100% rating it has earned on Rotten Tomatoes is definitely warranted. Bring some tissue and be ready to sit at the edge of your seat throughout. Oh, and keep an eye out for those sloths 🙂
For more information, visit these links for the latest and greatest news about the Zootopia movie.
My family and I received complimentary entry to see a pre-screening of the movie. All opinions are my own.
