This week I had the immense pleasure of viewing "Zootopia," and let me tell you: that was the best Disney film I have seen in years (if the first word out of your mouth is "Frozen," you can just let it go). This movie is so very smart and it is perfect for adults and children alike, a wonderful, quality film for everyone (which is what Disney has always been known for). So let's dive right in. Ye be warned, however, that in these waters, there be a spoiler or two.
1. The animal puns.
I am a sucker for a good one-liner, but especially if that one-liner is a classic, cheesy pun. This film knows its working with great material here and uses it to spin comedy gold at every turn. One of my own personal favorites was a wolf-cop who was put on "undercover detail" and immediately zips himself into a sheep costume. "Wolf in sheep's clothing," anyone? Anyone? I'll see myself out.
2. Shakira.
Say what you will about the Latin Princess of Pop, but she has got some serious pipes. Her song, "Try Everything," is so catchy and upbeat and underscores the entire theme of the film with lyrics that are so inspiring, you'll leave the theater feeling like you can conquer the world. Oh, and you won't get it out of your head for days. You're welcome.
3. Disney has no problem poking fun at itself.
It's nice to see Disney not taking itself too seriously. There are several scenes where the movie-industry-titan gives us some serious laughs at their own expense. My particular favorite scene is when a con artist weasel is selling pirated DVDs that are all recognizable Disney classics parodied to look like animal versions. When you can laugh at yourself, it's easy for everyone to laugh right along with you.
4. On that same note, there is a Frozen reference.
Ok, so I feel bad about my icy attitude towards "Frozen" (Nothing? Really?), so I'll throw this one in there for you guys. In that same scene with the weasel, there is a nod to Disney's "Frozen." It's a fun little moment that you'll miss if you don't know your Disney trivia and it proves that Disney is still the king/queen of easter eggs. I'll give you a hint: it has to do with a certain weaselly Duke. So you don't have to "let it go" after all.
5. "You come to me on the day of my daughter's wedding..."
This one will certainly resonate with the older crowd. There is an extremely faithful nod to The Godfather throughout scenes of the film. For any parent or grandparent who was dragged to see this, they will certainly appreciate this nod to classic cinema, even amidst a parade of colorful talking animals. There really is something for everyone here.
6. "Walt! Jesse! Get in here!"
I know I'm harping a little long-windedly on the references here, but this one is truly the best, simply because I did not see it coming in a million years. It is quite remarkable that Disney managed to sneak a reference to a show about blue methamphetamine into a children's film, however, in doing so, Disney proves once again that it has a finger firmly on the pulse of modern pop culture and is keeping up with the times with its audiences of all ages.
7. It explores relevant issues.
One major plot point of the film is that the predators who live in Zootopia are going wild and becoming dangerous. This leads to a lot of fear from the prey residents of the community. This film puts relevant issues of profiling out in the open in a time where our world is experiencing similar matters. It carries a strong and cautionary message about what fear can do and how it can tear us apart, and why it is so important to remember that we are all people, or, in this case, animals.
8. It has a strong female lead.
Judy Hopps is everything we could ask for in a strong female lead character. She is a crimefighter and a heroine and a champion for the little guy. Disney once again proves that girls (of any species, apparently) can be strong and courageous and anything they want to be. Girl power!
9. It has a stellar cast.
From Ginnifer Goodwin to Jason Bateman to Idris Elba, this cast is just star-studded. They were perfectly chosen and bring these characters to life in a way that is believable and relatable. This perfect casting really makes the film and sells a concept that could have come off a bit clanky otherwise if not done right.
10. It has a good message.
The message of the film (and the motto of Zootopia itself), "Anyone can be anything," is simple and inspiring. Although it might come off as a little naive, it rings true and is a good life lesson for anyone who is feeling hesitant about following their dreams. With hard work, determination, and the right amount of faith in yourself, it reminds you that you too can be anything.
11. It is a return to the "Golden Age of Disney."
Talking animals, stunning animation, and great music. All of the things our childhoods were made of, back again for both the new generation and the old generation alike. It's a beautiful thing to see in action.
12. It is just a darn good film.
Overall, this is just hands down the best film I've seen in a long time. It is smart, endearing, and it just really connects in a way that you can't help but fall completely in love with. I highly recommend this film. Try everything, but especially try "Zootopia."
