Nick, Judy return with energetic humour in Zootopia 2.
ZOOTOPIA 2 is simply fun. It is bright, energetic, surprisingly layered and very much built for the whole family. Kids will laugh at the slapstick, adults will catch the jokes flying over little heads and the film never forgets how to keep both groups entertained at the same time.
Where the first movie explored the divide between predator and prey mammals, the sequel turns its lens to a new tension. This time it is mammals versus reptiles and amphibians, a social gap most general audiences probably never realised was missing from the original. The story leans into that absence and uses it to highlight social issues that feel relevant without becoming heavy-handed.
Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde return exactly the way fans want them. Judy is still eager to prove herself, sometimes to her own detriment, and Nick is still calm and laid-back in the face of everything. Their relationship gets more space to breathe here.
Zootopia 2 digs deeper into the trust between them and shows how they have grown as partners. By the end, they are more open and honest, although their peers still underestimate them for reasons that echo the themes of the first film.
The new characters are strong additions to the world. Pawbert Lyxnley (Andy Samberg), Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan), Nibbles Maplestick (Fortune Feimster) and Mayor Winddancer (Patrick Warburton) all bring quirky personalities that fit right into Zootopia 2’s fast-paced charm.
There are small cameos sprinkled throughout, including a blink-and-you-miss-it Ratatouille gag and a koala voiced by Robert Irwin, son of the late Steve Irwin, in the final stretch. The returning cast continues to shine, especially Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin who fall back into their dynamic with ease.
The conspiracy at the centre of the plot is intriguing enough to keep older audience members hooked and the younger ones engaged. It works as a nice change of pace from the first film, which leaned more on mystery and political tension.
This sequel moves as more of an Indiana Jones-esque action and adventure. There are chase scenes, fights, near disasters and a sense of energy that will not slow down for audiences.
It is also surprisingly funny. Some jokes are obvious, others are quick and clever. The film balances the comedy with heartfelt moments and never tips over into anything too self-serious.
Apart from Shakira’s new song, which feels like a rework of her old World Cup track, there is not much to complain about.
The sequel also sets up a clear path for a third film. It hints at bigger ambitions and a wider world, and a post credit scene suggests the next chapter could take flight if Disney decides to go ahead.
Overall, Zootopia 2 is a worthy follow-up. It respects the original, expands the world, deepens the bond between its leads and leaves you curious about where the story will go next.
It is action-packed, heartfelt and genuinely enjoyable for any age group.
