Review of Zootopia (2016) by Korban B — 08 Aug 2017

"Disney: Hilariously Exploiting Stereotypes In Animal Form".

Who would have thought that another Disney animation focused on the lives of animals would be such a hit? If you want to laugh, cry, be uplifted, and experience a myriad of emotions, then Zootopia is the movie for you. Kids will love the cute animals depicted throughout the movie, as well as childish humor that kids will giggle hysterically at. Moreover, adults will not struggle with keeping their attention focused on the movie, like most "Kid" movies, because of the amazing artistry and captivating plot. An astounding feat that the film accomplished is the teaching opportunity it took to discuss, for all ages, real world issues that we struggle with around the world today.

From the tiny stature of a mob boss arctic shrew, Mr. Big, to the largest elephant yoga teacher, the metropolis of Zootopia is a place thought to be where all types of animals can live, thrive, and make their dreams come true. This is the case for a small town bunny name Judy Hopps (wonderfully voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin). Judy a determined and peppy rabbit with the inability to stop pursuing her dreams becomes the first bunny police officer in Zootopia. With the odds stacked against her, Officer Hopps takes on a curious case that will make or break her dreams and the metropolis of Zootopia. On her quest, Judy pairs up with an unimaginable partner, a con artist fox named Nick Wilde (brilliantly voiced by Jason Bateman). Together the unthinkable partners have to piece together clues to solve the mysterious case that could prove to be the end of the marvelous metropolis of Zootopia.

The amazing plot of the movie takes on the difficult task to teach its viewers the complexities and blatant issues of the world that may or may not be easily noticed. For example, two true enemies in the animal kingdom, a fox and bunny, have to set aside their differences to make sure that their metropolis survives. How is this any different in the real human world today? One can take many approaches to this issue such as Republicans and Democrats working together, high-income citizens cooperating and working with low-income citizens, black and white Americans working together, and many other real life scenarios that cause conflict in the world. This issue between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps teaches us that we have a choice to who we are and we can put aside our differences and work together harmoniously.

A particular point in the film that demonstrated the stroke of genius from the directors is the incorporation of the DMV run by sloths. It is common knowledge that sloths are some of the slowest moving creatures on earth, and the DMV is one of the most frustrating government agencies because of their slothful nature in dealing with customers. This hilarious and outrageous portrayal in which officer Hopps has to struggle with a sluggish sloth when she is in a hurry to get pertinent information dealing with her case gives a classic representation of real world frustration that many have undergone. The simple yet complex features throughout the movie provide a stimulating and relatable story.

As the movie progresses, an underlying issue is finally revealed that will shock the audience. The issue brought to light is that sometimes the real threat to an individual or society is not the predator in the relationship, but the conniving prey. The movie teaches us that we need to put our prejudices aside so we can make correct decisions based on actual evidence, rather than viewing things through biased lenses. This is a powerful message that is placed in the movie that demonstrates the calamity in the world, especially in the United States, because of previous historical issues that will not be put to rest.

Directors Bryon Howard, Richard Moore, and Jared Bush put their minds together to create a unique reality in which animals endure the same small and large concerns that humans do. Some of which include dirty politics, racism, and the struggle to live harmoniously with people of all backgrounds. This fascinating parallel between skin color and animal variety shares a beautiful angle on the diversity of the world. With their creative perspective, the directors flawlessly incorporated other iconic films into Zootopia such as "The Godfather", "Who Framed Roger Rabbit", and many other classic films. This tasteful placement of themes of iconic films adds a subtle complexity that made the movie enjoyable to all age ranges.

Walt Disney productions over the past few years have been impeccable, including Big Hero Six, Tangled, and the widely popular Frozen. Individuals that have seen these films understand the amazing results that all these movies have achieved, but many would conclude that they have reached the peak of their performance. These conclusions couldn't be more wrong because Zootopia is Disney's true masterpiece. I mean, come on, who wouldn't be interested in a film that hilariously exploits stereotypes and has a nudist colony for animals?