Zootopia: A Place Where You Can Be Anything

Last night Peyton and I were lucky enough to get into a sneak peak of Zootopia! And when I say we were lucky I am not kidding. The place was packed! When we arrived an hour and a half before the start time the line had already formed. There were about 50 people ahead of us. And here I thought we were going to be the first ones there. Boy was I wrong. All the children in line were extremely excited to see Zootopia. Peyton has seen numerous trailers for the movie and her favorite character is Officer Judy Hopps. I personally was leaning towards Nick Wild as a favorite.

The opening of Zootopia had me hooked. I instantly saw so many of Peyton’s characteristics in Officer Judy Hopps. The theatrical, quick witted and charming personality paired with a tough, do what’s right spirit. Peyton thought the first few minutes were a little intense but she quickly resolved her hesitations. As a parent I appreciated how Zootopia teaches you can be anything you want to be no matter who you are. Officer Judy Hopps demonstrates this throughout the film. Even though she’s a small bunny and not huge like other police offices (which are typically tigers, bears and other large predators) she finds a way to be just as effective as them. She learns to use her size and abilities in ways that give her an advantage. Nothing ever stops Officer Hopps.

Zootopia also teaches our children not to judge others. We see throughout the film how there is more to each character than being a predator or prey. For example, Nick Wild (a fox) just wanted to be a Jr. Explorer when he was little. He tried so hard to fit in. But they wouldn’t let him in. He was a predator and the other members were prey. They were so cruel to him! This one scene speaks volumes. Kids see how judgement can hurt others and how being mean can have lasting effects on someone. What a great teaching point! I see Peyton and I having many discussions just based on this one scene.  There are numerous scenes like this throughout the film but it’s not obvious to the children. They see a great movie with lively characters.

There was such a wonderful job weaving morals, jokes and entertainment into the film that it engages everyone. I found myself laughing at jokes that my child didn’t get but she was still enjoying the film. Zootopia is a film with layers of comedy and entertainment. A film you can watch over and over and find new pieces you may have missed before.

Bottom line is we both enjoyed Zootopia. It’s a film for everyone from the young to the old. A little something for all. Plus there are so many teachable moments woven into the story. I loved how Zootopia can stand alone and be a great one film masterpiece or Disney could make this into several movies. Yes, I believe Zootopia could have more movies. I see so many story lines! With all those animals and a lively Police Department think of all the mysteries they could solve. All the characters we have yet to meet and discover. We loved Zootopia!

Zootopia opens Nation wide on Friday, March 4th. Check your local theaters to find show times. I am predicting this movie to be packed on opening weekend so purchase your tickets as soon as you can and arrive early for good seats!

Connect with Zootopia online, Facebook and Twitter. Maybe they’ll announce a sequel someday??