Disney’s “Zootopia” sequel is about to arrive in cinemas with previews tonight ahead of one of the biggest opening weekends of the year.
Now the critical reviews are in with the film sitting at 93% on Rotten Tomatoes from 71 reviews, along with a 73/100 on Metacritic. That’s down around five points from both the 98% RT and 78/100 MC scores of the original.
General consensus seems to be this has turned out better than some other recent Disney sequels, and very easily likable, but not offering much in the way of artistic greatness. Here’s a sampling of reviews:
“There have been better animated sequels and more epic ones, but has there ever been a fluffier follow-up than this bouncy, buoyant caper starring at least half the nature world?” – Philip De Semlyen, Time Out
“Disney, when minded, can still do this stuff as well as anyone — and in the pleasurable spring and snap of its animation, its at-times-unsettlingly comely character design, and set-pieces that swarm with humour and panache, Zootropolis 2 is proof.” – Robbie Collin, Daily Telegraph
“These movies are comedies first and crime-film homages second, but it’s their tertiary value as social commentary that makes the franchise so indispensable: Behind the laughs are teachable moments.” – Peter DeBruge, Variety
“It’s also got the kind of heart that has too long seemed to be missing from other Disney animated offerings. There’s a weight to the messaging of the film. There’s real care behind the bond between Nick and Judy.” – Kate Erbland, Indiewire
“Although not as nimble at juggling action, comedy and commentary as the 2016 original, Zootopia 2 is a clever animation that banks on the bond between its mismatched animal cop partners.” – Tim Grierson, Screen
“The good news is that Disney has tried to be even more thoughtful and nuanced with its oppression metaphors this time around. The bad news is that the Mouse House also seems less invested in Zootopia as an artistic effort.” – Caroline Siede, AV Club
“The fun caper spirit of the first movie is alive enough to carry Bush and Howard’s film, but you can’t help feel like sequel-ization also means domestication.” – Jake Coyle, AP
“It’s the kind of movie you put on an iPad to keep the children quiet on a long plane or train journey; nothing wrong with that of course, but the heart and soul are lacking.” – Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian
“Zootopia 2” is currently tracking for a $125-150 million five-day opening weekend haul domestically, and a global debut that is expected to hit around $500 million by end of Sunday.
