Zootropolis (2016) REVIEW

Disney Animation, has once again, knocked it out of the park. Following on from Wreck It Ralph, Big Hero 6 and of course, the unstoppable Frozen, Disney bring us the wonderful Zootropolis (Zootopia in the US). It has already smashed many records in the US.

The film follows rabbit Judy Hopps (voiced by Gennifer Godwin) who has just passed her Police Academy exams and has huge dreams of being a police officer in the big smoke of Zootropolis, where predators and prey live together in harmony. When she discovers that over a dozen animals have gone missing, she ropes in her new fox friend wise cracking Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman). 

Judy must solve the mystery but also try to prove her competence against all odds, whilst trotting over the many exotic corners of Zootropolis. Are the predators turning back to their primal ways? And should they then be segregated from all other citizens? The film tackles huge ideas on prejudice, friendship and morality. It feels like a huge metaphor for racism and how we have preconceived ideas on how others will be. 

The fact that it is for kids AND adults, like most Disney gives the film such integrity. The script is also excellent, it genuinely took turns that I did not see coming, it is a fun ride from start to finish. It is also very funny, the scene with Flash the Sloth is the stand out! The voice work is excellent, both leads feel natural and suit their on screen counterparts, Bateman owns the show - his dry wit suiting Nick Wilde like a glove. 

The film is a feast for your eyes, every environment is full of colour and vibrancy. 

Animation has come a long way. As with all great Disney, it turns introspective on the audience - by the end we are questioning how we should all treat others better, with more understanding, and of course, it's a great lesson for all ages. Disney has done it again. 9.5/10