After nearly a decade and amidst a world that had momentarily forgotten the dynamic between Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, Walt Disney Animation Studios has triumphantly reopened the gates to Zootropolis. The long-awaited sequel, Zootropolis 2, has surpassed a billion dollars at the box office just over a month after its release, garnering praise that sets it apart from the more lukewarm recent entries in Disney’s animated lineup. This new installment dives deeper into the city’s rich lore, further developing the cherished relationship between Nick and Judy, inviting fans to speculate on their bond.
The creative team behind the franchise sees familiar faces, with Jared Bush and Byron Howard both heavily involved. While Howard continues his role as director, Bush has taken on a dual role, serving as co-director in addition to his responsibilities as a screenwriter on the 2016 original. Joining them is Yvett Merino, a newcomer as producer whose Disney credentials include Moana 2 and Encanto.
In a recent interview, Bush and Merino discussed the filmmaking process, focusing on the technical challenges of this sequel and the evolution of character animation. The pair expressed their excitement and gratitude towards the overwhelmingly positive reception of the film.
“It’s surreal,” Bush stated. “After investing five years in creating something without anyone knowing, hearing the audience’s reactions is incredibly rewarding.” Merino added that it feels like a secret shared with the world, hoping audiences connect with the film as deeply as the creators have.
Both expressed surprise at the diverse interpretations fans have made regarding the film’s characters and storylines, emphasizing the depth and nuances that were intentionally woven into the narrative. Bush highlighted that the project engaged around 700 artists aiming to resonate with audiences of all ages, particularly through the evolving relationship between Judy and Nick.
The film continues the original’s exploration of bias and stereotypes while introducing fresh themes. By integrating reptiles into the narrative, the filmmakers aimed to delve into issues of “othering,” paralleled with the differing perspectives of the beloved protagonists.
Much attention was given to the animation, particularly in rendering realistic snow, an effort supported by the studio’s passionate and talented effects team. Both Bush and Merino acknowledged the challenges of accurately depicting snow physics to create meaningful emotional responses in pivotal scenes, underscoring the dedication behind the film’s visuals.
Discussion also touched upon the handling of character animation, with Bush praising the team’s nuanced approach to portraying subconscious emotions, resulting in authentic character expression. This emphasis on subtlety allowed veterans and newcomers alike to infuse their emotions into the animation, particularly in scenes that reveal deeper feelings between Nick and Judy.
As the film expands the Zootropolis universe, Merino emphasized the importance of ensuring new settings feel as authentic as those developed in the first film. Both directors envisioned a world that feels expansive and lived-in, presenting elements of Zootropolis that hadn’t been seen previously.
The narrative is marked by clever details that add layers to the storytelling. From the whimsical idea of a mouse inside a vending machine to the inventive world-building found in locations like the Marsh Market, creativity thrives in the film’s design, allowing for comedic and charming moments throughout.
Zootropolis 2 also revisits the concept of twist villains, with the filmmakers opting for transparency regarding the antagonists. Instead of a single shocking reveal, the story centers on complex characters and their motivations, reinforcing that the emotional core lies in Nick and Judy’s relationship growth rather than plot twists.
As fans eagerly anticipate the future of Judy and Nick’s partnership, Bush reflected on the chemistry developed between the characters, acknowledging that their relationship continues to evolve. With audiences yearning for their romantic union, both creators assure that the heart of the Zootropolis franchise remains rooted in their dynamic.
Zootropolis 2 is currently playing in UK cinemas, marking a triumphant return for Disney Animation and bringing joy to audiences with its engaging storytelling and vibrant animation.