Sunday, May 1, 2016

"Zootopia's" ambitions are grand, its leads are righteous and charming, and its story is charistmatic and engaging



A brave and ambitious new Disney movie, one that takes chances I've not seen in years (perhaps decades?). Visually and cosmetically, this is a movie for children, full of colorful animals and cute-looking characters they surely will adore; however, from a content perspective, the script is very clever and daring, exploring themes of "us vs. them" that is reminiscent of a coming of age drama, and as such only adults will be able to fully appreciate what it's trying to do. The Fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) is a character for the ages, a scoundrel willing to rip anyone and everyone off for his own personal gain in this universe where Foxes aren't given the benefit of the doubt, but he's also a kind and thoughtful creature capable of surprising gestures. Ginnifer Goodwin's Judy Hopps is a young idealist prepared to do whatever's necessary to uphold the universal justice she holds so dear to her heart. The scene between these two characters in which she apologizes to him for being previously mean is worth the entire admission. The good thing is, the movie doesn't have a single bad scene. One of the best movies of the year.
A

No comments: