Is 'Zootopia 2' Still a Perfect Family Adventure? Here's How It Compares to the First Movie

On November 26, Zootopia 2 finally premiered. The original movie's creators, Byron Howard and Jared Bush, returned to direct and transport viewers to a thrilling world where rabbit cops and fox crooks solve crimes.

The main question on fans' minds is whether the sequel succeeded in replicating the brilliant formula of the original, or if it was merely a successful, albeit derivative, copy?

What Is 'Zootopia 2' About?

Finally officially joining the police force as partners, Judy and Nick find themselves at the center of a new investigation. This time, the clues lead them to Gary, a swamp viper and a member of a species of snakes that has long been considered dangerous and ostracized in Zootopia.

The investigation takes them to an influential lynx family that founded the city's climate system. It turns out that dark secrets from this clan's past may threaten the present, and only Gary can shed light on them.

Judy and Nick must uncover a new conspiracy and confront deeply ingrained societal prejudices once again.

'Zootopia 2' Storyline Feels Too Derivative

The main drawback of Zootopia 2 is its derivative plot – like the first movie, it builds the conflict around the topics of prejudice and social stereotypes.

However, while the original powerfully and freshly explored this idea through the development of Judy and Nick's relationship, the sequel feels repetitive.

The conflict between the partners lacks the same dramatic intensity, and while the new plot is complex, it doesn't feel original or engaging. The nearly two-hour running time highlights the cumbersome nature of the narrative compared to the first film's refined plot.

'Zootopia 2' Is Still a Visual Feast With Impressive Cinematography & Cute Animals

Although the sequel's content is inferior to that of the original, its technical execution is impeccable. The world of Zootopia has grown larger and more detailed, with richer colors. The creators have masterfully expanded the universe, inviting viewers to explore new corners of the city.

Zootopia 2 is a true feast for the eyes, thanks to high-quality animation, vibrant, expressive graphics, and superb character design.

'Zootopia 2' Will Be a Fun Adventure for Both Kids and Their Parents

Despite its derivative nature, Zootopia 2 remains a high-quality, engaging family movie. It conveys the serious and relevant message that heroes of the past can harbor dark secrets and that great achievements are sometimes built on deception.

This message is subtly woven into the narrative, though, so it doesn't turn the animation into a tedious lecture. Parents will especially appreciate the numerous witty references to classics, ranging from Ratatouille to The Silence of the Lambs and The Shining.

For children, it will be a bright, dynamic, and fun adventure with beloved characters.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Zootopia 2'?

• Zootopia 2 has 91% from critics and 95% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.7/10.

• On Letterboxd, Zootopia 2 scored 3.9/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Zootopia 2'?

Zootopia 2 is currently playing in theaters.