Zootropolis 2 Movie Review

Released: 28th November 2025 (UK)

Length: 108 Minutes

Certificate: U

Director: Jared Bush and Byron Howard

Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Ke Huy Quan, Idris Elba, Patrick Warburton, Fortune Feimster and Andy Samberg

On its debut in 2016, Zootropolis found great success with likeable characters, superb animation and standout core themes. After a nine-year wait, the second entry has arrived, bringing back everything audiences loved while expanding outwards.

Shortly after the original, Jodie Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) remain partners in the city police force as the 100^th anniversary of Zootropolis approaches. When the duo botches a car chase, they’re put on notice by the chief (Idris Elba) and come under intense scrutiny from the higher-ups. Their chance at redemption is an underhanded plot involving the elusive reptiles who once lived near the city, led by Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan). The original story revolved around overcoming stereotypes; the sequel delves into more overt corruption and discrimination with a heavy dose of misunderstanding. Those at the top of Zootropolis society have some dark secrets and there are some surprisingly mature themes here; namely gentrification and the stifling of projects that benefit all animals. These slot in very well with the franchise’s focus on celebrating differences and creating an environment where everyone can succeed. This sequel barrels along at a great place while still finding time to have some great interactions between the lead cast members.

For the most part, Zootropolis 2 adds a great deal to the characters as well. Jodie and Nick have some underlying internal problems and the chemistry between Goodwin and Bateman is arguably even better than the first film. There’s a lot of depth and friction as they go on the run from the authorities, their personalities clashing at several points. Jodie’s insistence on completing the job at any cost and Nick’s nonchalant attitude play off each other beautifully. Tagging along for the ride is Fortune Feimster as Nibbles Maplestick, who brings a ton of sassy personality and Patrick Warburton is another big highlight as the pompous Mayor Brian Winddancer. Smaller performances from the likes of Danny Trejo, John Leguizamo and Maccauly Culkin are well executed, though the film does stumble with other characters. Idris Elba is taken out of the story early on and some of the new faces, particularly Ke He Quan’s Gary, do feel rather basic. The narrative also takes an abrupt swerve with a twist villain that feels quite rushed. Still, when all the main roles are so well-executed, it’s easy to overlook these minor faults.

Boasting the same vibrant colours and infectious energy, Zootropolis 2 remains at the top of Disney animation. The journey our two leads embark on is larger and more varied with a wide range of set pieces along the way. Travelling out of the city in a water pipe, climbing up a steep mountain and racing through the desert, it never becomes too samey. Like any good follow-up, it builds on what came before with a fancy ball at a snow-covered mansion and an isolated swamp where the reptiles reside. The animal textures, especially the fur and skin, are incredibly detailed throughout. The film also weaves in a ton of references while still moving at top speed. It’s all very clever with lots of creativity and inventive gags along the way. The music is lively and energetic with another great turn from Shakira in both the first act and end credits. Overall, this film feels much bigger and more expansive, a great direction to take.

Zootropolis 2 is a rare Disney sequel that matches the original on every front. The story, characters and animation are all brilliantly presented with only a couple of weaker roles to lessen the proceedings. Kids and adults alike will get a ton of fun and laughs out of this latest production.

Rating: 4/5 Stars (Great)