Zootopia: Movie Review

I can’t say I was blown away by the trailers for Disney’s latest, “Zootopia”. It looked cute but I was more excited about “The Secret Life of Pets”, which comes out later this year. Now having seen “Zootopia”, I can’t even imagine a better animated film coming out anytime soon. Yes, it’s that great. Director’s Byron Howard and Rich Moore have a solid track record behind them that include, “Bolt”, “Tangled”, and “Wreck-it Ralph”.

The story centers on Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin), a country rabbit who has had a lifelong dream of moving to the city of Zootopia and becoming the first ever Bunny-Cop. Judy’s parents (voiced by Bonnie Hunt and Don Lake) want her to stay home and become a carrot farmer like the rest of the family. Judy follows her dreams and does wind up becoming the first Bunny-Cop, but her commanding officer , Chief Bogo (voiced Idris Elba) doesn’t feel she has what it takes, so he assigns her to be a meter maid.

Not thrilled with her first assignment, she is determined to do the best job she can. It doesn’t take long for Judy to find herself in the middle of a missing-animals case, where 14 various animals have suddenly vanished. She also finds herself partnering with con-artist fox Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman). Judy has a long history with not trusting foxes, but the pair wind up working well together and form a bond in the process.

“Zootopia” works on so many levels. First is the absolutely stunning animation, which brings not only the characters but the breathtaking city of Zootopia to life. Each part of the city is so very different and the creativity on display here is endless. I actually felt transported to another world which isn’t something I say often. The voice-casting is another strong element. J.K. Simmons, Jenny Slate, Tommy Chong, Octavia Spencer, Alan Tudyk, and Shakira are just a few of the familair voices that pop up. However, it is the writing here that seals the deal. There are so many clever lines that if the children don’t get the jokes, their parents surely will. This is a true family film. “Zootopia” has also a very strong and clear message about acceptance as well as following one’s dreams. This weekend, plan a trip to “Zootopia”, you won’t regret it.

By: Marc Ferman