Review of Zootopia (2016) by Ben B — 13 Oct 2018

Normally I enjoy animated films because they're are usually visually stunning and that is enough to hold my attention. Some I love and some I just enjoy even if they are flawed. But I was fairly excited for this film so I watched it, because I'm a sucker for animated films, and I was absolutely blown away by this movie and it surpassed my expectations. Firstly, Zootropolis (or Zootopia depending where you come from) is much, much more than your generic Disney film. It will actually entertain a higher age demographic rather than younger kids due to it's exciting story and mature themes and because it is more a crime drama than a comedy. Yes, the directors and writers aren't afraid to explore much more darker and mature themes then they usually do and they do throw in a few jump worthy parts. On the other hand, the kids will probably enjoy seeing the animals speak but adults will be really engaged because of it's story. This film definitely deserved it's Academy Award Oscar for 'Best Animated Feature'. Secondly, this film had me hooked all the way through because of its detective and mysterious themes and its crime drama story, it's frequently humourous sequences and because the film had a surprising amount of an emotional weight towards it.

Even though the tone is normally dark for an animated Disney film, the film still allows for some hilarious moments that, luckily, doesn't affect the overall tone. And like all modern Disney films, this film has stunning backdrops and top-notch animation and the soundtrack isn't half bad, either, alongside side it's exciting score. Furthermore, Zootropolis works well because of it's extremely likeable characters, who have emotional and sympathetic backstories, it's story, which is well paced, extremely well told and presented, and as the chemistry between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps is rich and compelling because of it's well written dialogue and great casting choices including Idris Elba, Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman. Not only that but Zootropolis thrills in it's tension filled action sequences and due to it's shocking plot twists; Zootropolis also allows Godfather fans to be delighted as well. In the end, Zootropolis isn't your average animated film because it is much more than that, it has an extremely intriguing, unprecedented presence and a well told story and is aided by compelling characters and fun moments. Zootropolis not only sets a bar high for future animated films but is probably one the best animated films ever made as of 2016. Additionally, Zootropolis is also one of the most enjoyable family films ever made. I absolutely adore Zootropolis.