1. DVD/Blu-Ray release only. I can't do a written review of anything in the theater because last time I sat through a movie in the theater I didn't like, I felt like I got robbed. I don't like that feeling, because it leads to pure rage.
2. No documentaries. Each of these have a focused audience, and talking about them, whether I am a part of that audience or not, is pretty pointless.
3. No R-Rated movies. I have to warn people about certain content. If I miss something, they are mad at me, because this is basically free advertisement. I'm saying this because I got a request for Pulp Fiction, and that review will mostly be me warning about content and scenes. I don't want to do that.
I put these rules with the review, because Zootopia not only fits these rules (it came out on DVD earlier this week), but it is one I feel I didn't give it the proper review when I first saw it. Not only is it my favorite film of the current year so far, it is the best Disney film I have seen as an adult. I had struggles with Disney movies after 2006, I had some issues with every one of them. I even had a change of heart towards Frozen as I have watched it after my original review.
The Pros: These are some of the best characters I have ever seen from Disney. Major and Minor characters all have their own personalities and they all leave an impact in one way or another.
Visually, the film does a fantastic job making full use of an animals separate quirks and characteristics into the world. Rabbits have a small hop in their walks, sloths have slow movements, all the mammals match the animals they are based one and it is used to create this world that is build to fit all their needs.
It is a complete story! You know how hard that is to find nowadays? There is no baiting for a sequel, no plot holes, no stupid plot twist, and NO POST CREDITS SCENES. Everything in the movie adds up and I actually left with a feeling of full satisfaction. Even in 2014 and 2015, my favorite films of those years, I left waiting for a sequel and not feeling complete. Yeah, I loved those movies, but it's like getting a good steak. However, Zootopia felt like not only getting a good steak, but also getting some great sides with it (Mashed Potatoes, mixed vegetables), so it was a full meal.
Any age can enjoy this movie. The animation and humor is good for both kids and adults, plus Easter Eggs throughout the film for everyone. Yes, even adults who like Breaking Bad will catch an Easter Egg in this movie.
I have nothing negative to say about this movie.
The Argument: I know some people will claim this is a liberal message about equal rights, but I am going to argue that. This isn't about equal rights, it is about equal opportunities. Instead of just giving everyone a free pass to just do whatever and let the government cover it, the movie ends with characters getting the opportunity to do something similar mammals didn't. In a world, where the strongest animals becomes police officers, we see a rabbit become one of the best officers they have seen in that city, because she worked for it. This films main message is about following your dreams, despite what others say to you. I saw this film as a motivation for me. I left this movie feeling more confident in myself as not only a writer, but as a creator.
Final Thoughts: I was surprised by this movie, more than I thought I would. In a world where film companies never learn their lessons, Disney proved that they do. This is not the first anamorphic film Disney has made, but this is their best major film release with this idea. If you haven't seen it, do so.
