The Film
Zootopia doesn't have the songs of Frozen or the superheroes of Big Hero 6, but it does manage to squeeze in more cuddly characters than possibly any Disney movie ever produced.
While cuddly is always appreciated, know that this film isn't just a bunch of fluff (or fur). Disney's 55th animated feature film is also one of the studio's most thoughtful, with excellent social commentary, smart dialogue, and enough jokes for the entire family.
The story focuses on Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin), a cute little bunny with dreams that go way beyond her family's carrot farm. With a little hard work, a lot of determination, and a spunky attitude, Judy manages to become the first rabbit police officer in Zootopia. Of course, life in the big city isn't always easy for the cute and cotton-tailed.
Shortly after taking the job, Judy crosses paths with sly fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), who becomes her unlikely (and initially unwilling) partner. The two team up to solve a missing mammal case that turns out to be anything more than routine.
Zootopia has a fun plot and the famous voices (Idris Elba, Jenny Slate, Tommy Chong, J. K. Simmons, Octavia Spencer, Alan Tudyk, and Shakira are just a few) you'd expect from a new animated feature, but it's really so much more. First of all, Judy Hopps is the Disney heroine we've been waiting for. She's certainly cute, but this is one brave bunny. The kids will love her, in addition to the rest of Zootopia's characters and situations. However, there are plenty of jokes and other nods for the adults that should go well over their heads, without coming off as boring. Even more impressive, Zootopia is more than just an entertaining film, but it delivers an important message about subjects like feminism and stereotyping without mocking or preaching. Instead, it's all just really well done.
The Picture
Disney is releasing a 3D edition of the Zootopia Blu-ray, but only sent the 2D version for review. As expected from the House of Mouse, this 2.39:1 transfer is just awesome. Disney really has a way of making animals come to life, in more ways than one. The fur, horns, and other animal accoutrements are this image's biggest standout. However, the surroundings of Zootopia are just as bright and detailed. The entire film is incredibly sharp with pretty much every color of the rainbow. Black levels and contrast are equally impressive. As expected, there's absolutely nothing to snarl at here.
The Sound
That opening rumble is an early indicator that this DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track is a good one. Duh, it's Disney, people! When it comes to newer releases, the studio never disappoints, and they aren't going to start with one of their best-rated, highest-grossing films. Dialogue is always clear, even when it's those two antelopes arguing in the apartment next to Judy's. Most of the surround action is all about the music, which includes Michael Giacchino's stellar soundtrack and the peppy sounds of Shakira. However, Zootopia also includes plenty of great atmospheric sound via thunderous footsteps, raindrops, forest critters, and others in the animal kingdom.
The Extras
Final Thoughts
Zootopia teaches us that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. The same could be said for this movie. Although it's filled with cute, cuddly characters, it's also one of the smartest Disney has ever produced. The whole family will enjoy the characters, the action, and even the message. It also has a Blu-ray that should please all ages, even if the extras are a bit on the short side.
Product Details
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