Zootopia 2 Roars into Theaters: Judy and Nick Return for a Thrilling New Adventure

Walt Disney Animation Studios' highly anticipated "Zootopia 2" has arrived, bringing back fan-favorite detectives Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde for another exciting caper. The sequel promises a blend of humor, heart, and action, building upon the success of its Oscar-winning predecessor and delighting audiences with its vibrant world and engaging characters.

Key Takeaways

• Zootopia 2" boasts a high critical approval rating of 92% on Rotten Tomatoes from 146 reviews.

• Audiences have also responded positively, with a 96% "Popcornmeter" score based on over 2,500 verified ratings.

• The film continues the adventures of bunny cop Judy Hopps and fox con artist turned partner Nick Wilde.

• A new mystery involving a reptile and a stolen artifact drives the plot.

• The sequel explores new parts of Zootopia and tests the partnership between Judy and Nick.

A Familiar Partnership, A New Mystery

In "Zootopia 2," the dynamic duo of Officer Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) are back on the case. This time, they find themselves entangled in the mystery of a reptile who disrupts the peace of the mammal metropolis. To unravel the truth, Judy and Nick must go undercover in unfamiliar territories within Zootopia, pushing their partnership to its limits.

The film is praised for its clever storytelling, balancing a compelling mystery with social commentary and heartfelt moments. Critics have noted the evolution of Judy and Nick's relationship, highlighting their endearing buddy dynamic as a cornerstone of the sequel's success. The narrative expands the world of Zootopia, introducing new environments and characters that enrich the cinematic experience.

Critical and Audience Acclaim

"Zootopia 2" has been met with widespread critical praise, earning a 92% Tomatometer score from 146 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. The consensus highlights the film's ability to cleverly layer a thoughtful message onto another "crackerjack caper" while solidifying Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde as one of the most endearing buddy pairings in recent memory. Audiences have echoed this enthusiasm, with the "Popcornmeter" rating at 96% from over 2,500 verified ratings. Many viewers describe the film as an "action-fueled, hilarious, heartwarming adventure for the whole family," with some even suggesting it may surpass its spectacular predecessor.

New Characters and Expanded World

The sequel introduces a host of new characters, including Gary, a pit viper voiced by Ke Huy Quan, who brings significant heart to the film. Other notable additions include conspiracy theory podcaster Nibbles (Fortune Feimster) and an awkward but friendly member of the Lynx family, Pawbert (Andy Samberg). The film also features a new mayor, Brian Winddancer (Patrick Warburton), a politician who was formerly an actor. These new additions contribute to the film's expansive narrative and visually dazzling new environments, which include a desert, a mountain range, and a coastal setting for water mammals.

A Celebration of Community and Friendship

Beyond the thrilling mystery and humor, "Zootopia 2" serves as an ode to community, justice, open-mindedness, and most importantly, friendship. The film explores themes of trust and acceptance, reinforcing the message that Zootopia is a place where animals of all sizes and habitats can live together. The narrative delves into how Zootopia, while a marvel of design for land mammals, has excluded other species, prompting Judy and Nick to address this imbalance.

The movie is noted for its "zippity-doo animation" and constant surprises, offering a visually stunning experience with intricate details that reward repeat viewings. The action sequences, including car chases and travel through water-filled tubes, are described as visually dazzling. The film's focus remains on the growth of Nick and Judy as partners and friends, delivering a joyful and ebullient experience for viewers of all ages.

Sources

• Zootopia 2 | Rotten Tomatoes, Rotten Tomatoes.

• Zootopia 2 movie review & film summary (2025), Roger Ebert.