After nine years, Zootopia 2 is finally here and it brings back Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde as official partners in the Zootopia Police Department. This time they are dealing with a new mystery involving a snake skin, a stolen ancestral journal and the history of reptiles in the city. Their friendship and partnership are put to the test while they uncover secrets about Zootopia’s past and the challenges of integrating different species.
I had fun watching it, but I have to be honest, it is not quite on the level of the first movie. There were moments that felt a bit draggy and the plot is way too convenient. Everything happens just at the right time and clues fall into place too easily. For a movie we have been waiting so long for, I maybe expected a bit more.
But it is a kids movie and seeing the little ones laughing and cheering, even crying at some parts, really brought a smile to my face. The plot may be simple and spoon-fed, but the characters are easy to connect with, the world-building is solid and the CGI especially on the fur is really impressive. The voice acting feels just as strong as in the first film.
The dynamic between Judy and Nick is explored a lot more in this movie. Their partnership is tested by the case they are working on and you get to see them beyond just law-abiding Judy or rule-breaking Nick. There are a few scenes that make you feel even more connected to them.
Most of the laughs came from what was happening in the background. Nothing had me in stitches but there were plenty of little chuckles throughout. The dialogue is clever and the humour works well for both kids and adults.
The villains in this one are menacing but their motivations are simple, rooted in generational hatred. The social commentary is lighter than the first movie. This sequel focuses more on Judy and Nick and exploring the history of Zootopia and reptiles. There are themes, but they do not hit as hard as the first film.
The story is a bit up and down. Some scenes are touching, while others feel rushed, especially when you are trying to feel the moment but the police are already chasing someone. The movie is only 1 hour 48 minutes so they have to cram things in.
The plot is predictable, especially the first twist which I saw coming from a mile away, but the second twist caught me and it was really nice. The villain’s scheme feels similar to the first film, dividing and causing chaos, but it still works.
Visually, Zootopia 2 is stunning. The animation is smooth, the city feels alive and the attention to detail is impressive. The voice acting is strong, with Ke Huy Quan as Gary De’Snake bringing both comedy and heart and Shakira’s new song adds fun without being overwhelming.
Watching it also made me feel nostalgic. It has been years since the first movie and revisiting Zootopia was a warm reminder of why the first film was so great. Is it worthy of watching? Yes. Does it live up to the first? Sort of. The first movie still has stronger moral values and themes, but that does not take away from what the second movie brings. I enjoyed it.
Overall, Zootopia 2 is fun, heartwarming and visually gorgeous, even if the plot is a bit convenient and predictable. It is a solid adventure with laughs, action and charm that will keep kids entertained and adults smiling. Not as strong as the original in terms of social impact, but it is still worth the watch.
Ratings:
- iMDb: 7.8/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 96%
- Metacritic: 73%
My personal rating: 7/10. The movie is a wothy successor to the movie, while convenient, but it does not shy away to teach the children some important values, plus good jokes.
P/S: I got the chance to watch it in DOLBY ATMOS hall, I would say it is worth it because of the amount of things happening in the background pulls you in to the movie.
