I’ve always been a fan of animated movies because it teaches us about life without being too serious, moody or naggy about it. It teaches us (and not just the kids) in the most lighthearted way, at times without us realizing it until we sit down and talk about it with family and friends. Disney’s latest offering, Zootopia, is no different.

Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) from Bunnyburrow had a great ambition – to be a police officer in the land of dreams, Zootopia. Despite her parents’ obvious worries, she fought on through police academy and graduated as a top student. However, upon reaching Zootopia, her dreams shattered when she was assigned to be a parking meter officer. That’s when she met the foxy Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), who manipulated her for his own sneaky business of selling popsicles. When the police department was visited by a family member of a missing case, she volunteered to help but was given a 48-hour period to solve the case or quit. She used the information she had on Nick to get his help to crack her first case. The unlikely duo went on a journey towards acceptance and friendship. But will the natural predator and prey get on the way of the friendship?

As I mentioned before, Disney has a way to sneak in some life lessons and Zootopia‘s lesson is something that some of us have dealt with – discrimination and prejudice. And what a better way to teach kids in the audience on such a heavy topic than through talking, animated animals. A bunny that was always known to be adorable and fluffy was a courageous one at heart. A fox who was always known to be manipulative had a kind-hearted soul. An arctic shrew was the ringleader of a notorious gang. A sheep was not so timid. A buffalo did know how to have fun while a cheetah was a flamboyant fanboy.

What Disney was trying to teach both adults and kids are one of the simplest rules in life – don’t judge a book by its cover. One may look timid but that same one may kick your butt. On the other hand, one may look brave but may run away when trouble comes.

It’s so amazing that Disney was able to sneak all of that in a neat little 109-minute movie.

But of course, no Disney movie that I’ve ever watched lack comedy and this time, it’s with the sloth. The sloth made the entire movie. I was laughing so hard I was keeling over in my seat crying. I think the movie just take a shot at those working in the Department of Motor Vehicles. Woops!

In terms of artwork and animation, I have not much to say but it does its job in making Zootopia looks like a city that never sleeps (most likely inspired by New York) and the animals look so human-like.

Oh yeah, and the theme song, Try Everything by Shakira, is also quite addictive. And yes, she does make a cameo… as an animal of course. It’s Zootopia. There are no humans!

I give this movie a 3 out of 5. I have my favourite animations and Zootopia is not up there but is still very enjoyable.

Trailer…