‘Zootropolis 2’ review - A strong follow-up to a modern Disney animated classic

Disney loves a sequel, but it took nine years for Zootropolis 2 to follow on from 2016’s Zootropolis.

They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that could explain why Zootropolis 2 has already grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide. 

Film News Blitz’s Dan Lawrence believes this is a strong follow-up. 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

What is ‘Zootropolis 2’ about?

Shortly after the events of Zootropolis (Zootopia in the United States), Zootropolis 2 finds proud bunny Officer Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and her recently inducted police partner and fox friend, Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), ignoring the authority of Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) in a bid to prove themselves. 

An enthralling opening sequence welcomes audiences back into the eclectic mix of animals that comprise the world of the Zootropolis franchise before Chief Bogo orders are two heroes to lie low or risk being split up.

But when a city-wide conspiracy threatens the already exiled reptile population into extinction, Hopps and Wilde team up with Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan) to help put things right.

The impact of a well-worked sequel

Like many sequels, especially those for younger audiences, there are familiar story beats at play in Zootropolis 2.

So, while it can’t fully live up to the original, the strength of the beats being repeated means that Zootropolis 2 is a winner.

The themes at play are strong, teaching viewers the power of acceptance, the good in being different, and being open with one’s feelings.

Moreover, Zootropolis 2 enjoys new additions to the cast of characters.

Quan’s Gary De’Snake kindness pours out of the screen, Andy Samberg lays his trademark charm to Pawbert Lynxley, and Patrick Warburton is hilarious as the equine Mayor Winddancer.

Topping it off is Fortune Feimster’s scene-stealing conspiracy theorist Beaver, Nibbles Maplestick.

Zootropolis 2 also succeeds in expanding its world, with the expansion of the map to Marsh Market, home to semi-acquatic, aquatic and reptilian critters, doing so with trademark humour and creativity.

In keeping with important themes, valuable lessons, fun new characters and interesting new locations, Zootropolis 2 is also packed full of heartwarming moments and cinematic references for the adult viewers to enjoy as well.

It’s no surprise that directors Jared Bush (who also wrote the screenplay) and Bryon Howard have seen their film so warmly received by cinemagoers worldwide.

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