Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
First of all, before I get into this review, I just took a look over at Rotten Tomatoes and saw that Zootopia, the latest animated offering from Disney Animation, is at a 99% fresh tomato rating. 99%!!!!!! I don't even know if I've ever seen a fresh rating that high. It's so high that these fresh tomatoes are still green! And now I want fried green tomatoes, dang it.
Ever since Judy Hopps, played by Ginnifer Goodwin, was a little bunny she dreamed of becoming a police officer. But in her family and community nobody has never left, always giving up dreams to grow carrots. It's expected. In fact, no bunny, female or male, has ever become a police officer, as that job has always been performed by larger animals: polar bears, bison, elephants, etc. Intimidating creatures. Judy Hopps is an optimistic little animal with a big dream, proving along each step that nothing is impossible. All dreams are possible.
Along her journey of acceptance she stumbles upon Nick Wilde, a sly fox played by Jason Bateman, who oozes charm and sarcasm. While she struggles with her acceptance of him, Judy always keeps fox spray strapped to her belt just in case, they find themselves spending a lot of time together. Can two previous foes ever become friends?
There is a huge social political underlying theme, which is why I believe the fresh tomato rating is so high. Zootopia has it's own set of politics based on their unique culture of prey verses predator. Although society has evolved to where they all live together, there's fear of a return to the primeval instinct. Can foxes and bunny's ever get along?
In terms of some of the underlying messages that only adults will read into, I will not comment. My mind did start spinning into possible implied implications and so forth, "what are they saying?" and so forth. In this day and age, with so many opinions, current racial climate, and Disney's liberal slant, it's hard to say, so I'm not going there. Read into it as much or as little as you wish. The social-political climate works within Zootopia.
With what is happening currently in American world events, the degrading and attacks on police officers, I appreciate the positive image created in Zootopia in regards to cops. It's nice seeing those who are willing to sacrifice their lives to protect our lives portrayed in a positive light.
Overall I love the positive message in the film, and I love Judy's incredible optimism and drive. And I love Nick's one liners and attitude. The chemistry these two characters have compliment Zootopia.
And, oh my goodness, the animation and world building in Zootopia! One of the early shots when Judy rides a train is really breathtaking. So much thought and brilliant artistry has been put into this movie. And seeing how the different animals live together is really fun. The town of little rodents that we get to see later on is so cute! Creatively Zootopia is a fun film.
And I love the music. The soundtrack is rich. And the theme song "Try Everything" by Shakira is catchy.
A good movie with an intriguing plot, vibrant world, and strong characters.
MPAA: Rated PG for some thematic elements, rude humor and action
Animal nudist colony. -_-;; Definitely humor aimed at adults.
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