We move away from the past and flash to the present with Disney’s latest animated movie, Zootopia. This critically-acclaimed film is tearing up the box-office with a $73.7 million opening weekend.
It is a very funny movie for both kids and adults. The themes of the movie are complex but explained in a manner that kids, of all ages, can understand them. But, at least for my family, Zootopia is an important movie because it is the first Disney movie where a rabbit gets to play a starring role.
My daughter is a massive rabbit fan (she even hopped to meet Thumper and Miss Bunny when she met them a few years ago). She has been looking forward to this movie for months. Judy Hopps may have moved to the top of her list of favorite Disney characters. Judy is a young, energetic, and full of determination. A role bunny for children to look up to. Ginnifer Goodwin brought that energy to Judy throughout the entire picture.
Judy is not to be outdone by her partner in crime….solving. Nick Wilde. Jason Bateman did an excellent job of voicing this sly fox with a heart of gold. The voice actor that I was surprised to see listed was Tom Lister Jr. He voiced Nick’s associate, Finnick. Those of you who follow wrestling know Tom Lister Jr. as Zeus from the World Wrestling Federation.
Zootopia does a good job of discussing the themes of prejustice and not judging a book by its cover in a fun and humorous way that kids can relate to. The movie is also full of cultural references that were more “Zootopized,” Here’s a sampling that I saw:
Bunnyburrow – Judy Hopps hometown
Zuber – For the Uber transportation service
Lemming Brothers Bank – Lehman Brothers
Hoof Locker – Foot Locker
Muzzle Time – FaceTime
PB&J Wifi for Judy Hopps wifi service
Mousy’s – Macy’s
Emmet Otterton – Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas
“You Throw Like a Bunny” – “You Throw Like a Girl”
Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing in the ZPD
Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps will be meeting and greeting guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom starting in April.
Thanks for reading!
dadfordisney 