Zootopia

Zootopia (2016)

Directed by Byron Howard, Rich Moore, Jared Bush

Written by Jared Bush, Phil Johnston

Starring: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, J.K. Simmons

Judy Hopps (Goodwin) is a bunny and a rookie cop in the big city of Zootopia. With the future of her career on the line, she hooks up with a con-artist fox (Bateman) to unravel a conspiracy that threatens the peace of the city.

Walt Disney Animation followed up the success of Big Hero 6 with another fun film. This one was written by a team that included Jared Bush and Phil Johnston (Wreck-It Ralph). This was directed by Byron Howard (Tangled), Rich Moore (Horton Hears a Who!), and Jared Bush (Big Hero 6). The cast of actors who voice the characters in this one include Ginnifer Goodwin (Walk the Line), Jason Bateman (Horrible Bosses), Idris Elba (Thor), and J.K. Simmons (Whiplash).

This movie features a story that you’ve seen before. This isn’t a copycat film, but it uses the formula of many buddy cop movies. (Think 48 Hours, but for kids. This isn’t a bad thing though. This is the perfect framework for the film to build on. The remainder of the writing does an excellent job creating the world of Zootopia and all of the entertaining creatures within. Each of the characters has unique characteristics that give great personality to the entire film. This movie also does a great job finding a way to connect to viewers of all ages. Children and adults will both find reasons to laugh throughout the movie. If you’re worried that the movie might be predictable, don’t be. The little twists throughout the movie all help to keep this one moving. The writing does everything necessary to make this one another great addition to the Disney Animation catalog.

There were so many talented people who brought their voices to this film. The cast is huge, and features so many recognizable talents bringing different characters to life. Ginnifer Goodwin was a great choice for the voice of Judy Hopps. She did a great job with the huge range of emotions her character went through in the film. She also found great comedic timing that really adds something to this one. Jason Bateman was an equally great choice. His dry sense of humor worked perfectly with the character he was given. These two also have great exchanges throughout the movie. Idris Elba and J.K. Simmons are just a couple of the many other stars who brought great skill to this one. Throughout this film the voices help to create memorable characters that really make this one fun.

This movie looks incredible. This computer animated film has a richness and depth that really helps to make this look great. Each of the characters fits in the world of Zootopia but still has their own unique physical characteristics. The movie also has some great action sequences that are fun and visually stunning. The music created for the movie also adds a nice touch to the finished product. As a finished product, Zootopia does all the right things with the production.

This is a great movie for families to enjoy together. That doesn’t mean that it’s a kids film though. Fans of Disney animation should make sure to see this one on the big screen. I would also suggest this to fans of any of the stars. I give this one 5 out of 5 stars.

Rating: PG

Running Time: 108 Minutes