Movie Review: 'Zootopia 2'

Fans will be thrilled to see Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde back in 'Zootopia 2' as they take us on another thrilling, hilarious, and heartwarming adventure.

(L to R) Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) and Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) in Walt Disney Animation Studios' 'Zootopia 2'. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Opening in theaters November 26, 'Zootopia 2' welcomes fans back to the world of animals with a fun, family-friendly animated feature starring Ginnifer Goodwin as Judy Hopps, Jason Bateman as Nick Wilde, and Ke Huy Quan as Gaedy De'Snake. 'Zootopia 2' is co-direected by Jared Bush and Byron Howard.

Initial Thoughts

Nearly ten years after 'Zootopia', it is time to catch up with Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde and see what they have been up to. Surprisingly, 'Zootopia 2' is set almost immediately after the events of the first film, making it a seamless transition. For those who have not revisited it in a while, the opening moments remind us of everything that happened in a way that is equal parts entertaining and informative.

The question everyone always asks themselves when it comes to sequels is "is this story worth telling?". Thankfully, the answer to that when it comes to 'Zootopia 2' is yes.

Story and Direction

Because this story takes place so close to the one that was being told in 'Zootopia', there isn't a lot of catching up that has to be done with the characters. This is a major plus when it comes to 'Zootopia 2' because it allows viewers to fall right back into this world without any questions or concerns.

Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are now partners on the polic force, but considering that they have not had a lot of time working together, there are some growing pains. This is not only believable, it makes perfect sense as they still do not know each other very well.

Walt Disney Animation Studios' 'Zootopia 2'. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Judy and Nick are great at solving mysteries together, that is something that was established in the first movie. Pretty early on a new mystery drops into their laps, and even though it means they need to go on the run, they decide to take it on. Snakes have not been seen in Zootopia for years, and for good reason, everyone is scared of them. However, when Gary De'Snake shows up asking for help, Judy senses he truly needs it.

This sends them on a high stakes, action packed adventure filled with numerous quirky new characters and a whole lot of animal puns that is sure to put a smile on everyone's faces. Because of this, they visit a lot of new places in Zootopia we have not seen yet, and directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard do a great job of keeping eveything on track and blending well together. What could have easily felt muddled and too much, is not.

Cast and Performances

Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin solidified themselves as the perfect choices for this unlikely duo in the first film, and they once again nail their performances this time around. All of the returning cast bring their A-game again, showing fans why they fell in love with these characters in the first place.

Gary De’Snake (voiced by Ke Huy Quan) in Walt Disney Animation Studios' 'Zootopia 2'. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The real standout, however, is Ke Huy Quan as Gary De'Snake. He has deserved everything that he has gotten in the last several years as he made his way back into the acting world, and he was the right choice to play this misunderstood character. Kids (and parents) are sure to love Gary just as much as they love Ke, and for good reason. He is the heart of this story, and hopefully this is not the last time that we will see him.

Final Thoughts

'Zootopia 2' is just as fun as the first movie. It features a catchy new song, 'Zoo', sung by Gazelle (Shakira) of course. It delivers heart as well as humor, something that Disney Animation does extremely well.

Stay through the credits because in true Disney fashion, there is a tease for a possible third movie that will leave viewers excited and eagerly anticipating more from their beloved Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps.

'Zootopia 2' receives a score of 85 out of 100.

'Zootopia 2' opens in theaters on November 26th.

What is the plot of 'Zootopia 2'?

In Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Zootopia 2," detectives Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) find themselves on the twisting trail of a mysterious reptile who arrives in Zootopia and turns the mammal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.

Who is the cast of 'Zootopia 2'?

Ginnifer Goodwin as Judy Hopps
Jason Bateman as Nick Wilde
Ke Huy Quan as Gary De'Snake
Fortune Feimster as Nibbles Maplestick
Patrick Warburton as Mayor Brian Winddancer
Idris Elba as Chief Bogo
Andy Samberg as Pawbert Lynxley
David Strathairn as Milton Lynxley
Quinta Brunson as Dr. Fuzzby

(L to R) Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin), Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman), and the Bearoness (voiced by Yvette Nicole Brown) in Walt Disney Animation Studios' 'Zootopia 2'. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.