"Zootopia II" is Disney doing what it does best - an animated original feature with anthropopmorphic animals.
Why the mega-corporation doesn't just stick with films like this instead of absorbing independent sci-fi franchises - just to pervert them, that's a question that probably wouldn't get past the doors of the 33 Club.
But the House of Mouses' continual sins could be dispelled for a couple of hours as audiences can easily get lost in Jared Bush's West Coast gone wild.
The film makes noticeable nods to "Miami Vice", "Lethal Weapon", "Mission : Impossible" and even some Kubrickism's get thrown in late in the game to let cinephile's know that this picture is more than just an average animated children's feature.
Focusing on heavy handed topics of dynasties, nepotism, redlining, and gentrification this sequel lives up to it's predecessor by tackling avid topics that still present a problem and (will perhaps forever) in the mammal ran system of democracy in Western nations.
With the strides made in Bush's series, one could almost forgive the slur filled and stereotypical shorts that came out from Disney in their early years. Of course those films will never be forgotten, but this one shouldn't be either, nor should it's predecessor and I found it respectful that there were a handful of easter eggs and returning characters linked to the first film in this series to remind viewers of the legacy, but I am glad that there was no overshadowing of the new characters to carry this film, to the point that Bush even sidelines some of the o.g.'s to allow the new cast to get optimal shine.
But of course the focus is still on Jason Bateman's crafty fox and Ginnifer Goodwin's adorable bunny - Disney couldn't get a better Riggs & Murtagh.
The chemistry is still there even as they get tested throughout the film providing a great subplot on boundaries and teamwork in healthy relationships.
This is far superior work from Disney than just going for the low hanging fruit in children's films of pushing feminism or flatulence.
Tag on a junior class of demystifying reptiles by having action star Ke Huy Quan ("Love Hurts", "Everything, Everywhere At Once") portray a lovable snake and Disney just sealed off a solid 2025 that included a live-action "Lilo & Stitch" a Nine Inch Nails propelled "Tron : Ares" all up under their banner, wrapping things up in the fourth quarter with a animated feature with talking animals.
80's homicidal aliens found in a DLC pack on Mortal Kombat and Marvel Comics neutered and dumbed down for the average western audience, you can miss me with that. But when Disney goes back to basics with the anime animals breaking down life lessons ? Oh, now that's what makes "Zootopia II" front row seat material.
