Ginnifer Goodwin – We Are Movie Geeks

ZOOTOPIA 2 – Review

What’s this? Or maybe I should say, “What’s gnu?”. We’re almost at the end of the year, and we’ve got a flick that hits the usual Summer “sweet spot” twice. Yes, this is an animated feature, and it’s a sequel, though it’s been nine (!) years since the original opened, time enough for a whole new “moviegoer generation” (back before home video, Disney would re-release their classics every seven years, as a kind of “turn-over”). And much like the return of THE BAD GUYS, we’re back in a world without humans, just cute (mostly) adorable animals. And at the heart of the story is a most unlikely, very odd couple. Oh, and now they’re both “on the force”, so it’s “buddy cop” movie, too. The “Mouse House” hopes that everyone will want to join them on their new “case” in ZOOTOPIA 2.

After a brief flashback back to the finale of the original, we’re soon return to the wild streets of “Tundra Town” in Zootopia with Det. Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) and her partner Det. Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). Somehow the bust of a smuggling ring goes, well,”bust” as the bunny and fox end up destroying the statue of the beloved creator of the “Weather Wall” (which generates vastly different climates with the city, that allows the various mammals to co-exist). Of course, they’re reprimanded by their boss, Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) and taken off patrol duty (riding a desk). But does this stop the ever-upbeat and curious Hopps? No, she spots a logo on footage of the smuggler’s van that connects it to a big fancy museum gala that will showcase the original design book of that Weather Wall with the offspring of the inventor, the wealthy and powerful Lynxley family in attendance. Hopps and Wilde don disguises and sneak in. But just as Hopps has a friendly meet up with the less-celebrated of those heirs, the bumbling shy Pawbert (Andy Samberg), someone cuts the lights and the treasured book is snatched. The police duo corner the thief, who is revealed to be a pit viper named Gary De’Snake (Ke Huy Quan). How can this be? Reptiles were banished from Zootopia years ago. When Gary escapes, Hopps and Wilde must use all their sleuthing skills to learn the true origins of their home, before sinister forces destroy it.

Wisely the producers have assembled a stellar vocal cast mixing the usual celebrity “star” roster with a few cartoon voice vets like Maurice LaMarche (forever “The Brain”), Bob Bergen, and Debra Monk. Since he’s been so prolific “behind the mike” we could add Patrick Warburton, who is quite funny as actor turned politico Mayor Windancer ( love how he constantly whips his mane), along with Alan Tudyk (the studio’s “good luck charm”) as several supporting characters. As for the “big names”, Goodwin and Bateman are still are a terrific pairing as Hopps and Wilde with her sprite-like sunny energy and his laid-back cool. Ditto for Elba’s intimidating, “bass-heavy” Bogo. A few of the “newbies” really shine. Quan gives the slithery Gary a real sweetness as he tries to toss away his species’ “bad rep”. Samberg conveys a needy, goofy quality as Pawbert. As his father Milton Linxley, David Strathairn, is quite effective as the impossible to please tyrant of a papa. Another big addition comes from the world of stand-up as comic Fortune Feimster puts an energetic, frantic spin on the conspiracy-lovin’ podcast-hostin’ beaver, Nibbles Maplestick.

The directing team of Jared Bush (who doubles as screenwriter) and Byron Howard return to ensure the same excellent artistry of the original. This film will benefit from multiple viewings, since it’s almost impossible to consume all of the “eye candy” that fills nearly every frame with witty visual puns and bombastic sight gags. Everywhere, there’s a pun-filled sign or an interestingly garbed animal engaging in a wacky bit of business. Of course, the latter begins with the superb character design, ranging from towering elephants and rhinos to the diminutive mice and moles. The artisans really had a “field day” with Gary whose elastic coiling torso balances an almost angelic face (even with the fangs). But then all of the physical acting (such emotive gestures) are top-notch. Michael Giacchino contributes a score nearly as light and bouncy as his work on the Fantastic Four flick. Critter-loving kiddies should be in “hog heaven” as they ID the astounding variety on screen, though the too-convoluted conspiracy plot line (almost a stumper for Benoit Blanc) may leave them lost in the various twists and turns (simple’s always better, along with a slightly-shorter runtime). Otherwise, this is a superior bit of family entertainment, ZOOTOPIA 2 is a nice extra dessert (along with that pumpkin pie) for this Thanksgiving.

3 Out of 4

ZOOTOPIA 2 arrives in theatres everywhere on Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Catch A First Look At The First Trailer For ZOOTOPIA 2

Walt Disney Animation Studios revealed a brand-new teaser trailer this morning for “Zootopia 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to 2016’s Academy Award®-winning “Zootopia.” Featuring glimpses at new and returning characters, the trailer reunites rookie cops Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman) and teases a new team-up with a mysterious pit viper, Gary De’Snake (voice of Ke Huy Quan).

In the film, which opens only in theaters Nov. 26, Judy and Nick find themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake arrives in Zootopia and turns the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, they must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.

According to Disney Animation chief creative officer and director Jared Bush, who also wrote the script, a larger world is in store for fans. “We are beyond excited to welcome everyone back to the outrageous, expansive animal metropolis of Zootopia, and take audiences on a hilarious, wild ride into parts of the city we’ve never visited before,” said Bush. “Whether it’s the marshes of semi-aquatic mammals, the vast desert dunes or even greater mysteries beyond, our heroes, Judy and Nick, will meet a lot of new friends, and discover even more about the world, themselves and a brand-new snake in town.”

Added director Byron Howard, “The trailer features the original song ‘ZUTU’ by Zootopia’s finest lemming techno group, LEMEEENS. Fresh from touring with superstar Gazelle as her opening act, members Hans-Peter, Gūnther, Spielt and their DJ, Spaß, created the song to mark the occasion and welcome the world back to the City of Zootopia!”

From the Oscar®-winning team of Jared Bush and Byron Howard (directors) and Yvett Merino (producer), “Zootopia 2” also features the voices of Fortune Feimster, Quinta Brunson and Shakira, who returns as Gazelle.

© 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

ZOOTOPIA Available on Blu-ray June 7th

“I am just a dumb bunny, but, we are good at multiplying!”

When I reviewed ZOOTOPIA here at We Are Movie Geeks, I wrote”, the beautifully designed, brightly-hued ZOOTOPIA is breezier and bouncier than most. The animation work is dazzling, lovingly detailed without being overdone. I felt like I could reach out and pet these furry critters, especially in eye-popping 3D.” (read all of my review HERE)

Now you can own ZOOTOPIA on Blu-ray thanks to Walt Disney Animation Studios!

ZOOTOPIA has broken records worldwide earning more than $900 million at the global box office to date. The best reviewed movie of 2016, critics and audiences around the world have fallen in love with the wonderfully innovative animal metropolis of ZOOTOPIA and the comedic chemistry of rookie rabbit officer Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and scam-artist fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). It’s been called one of the best buddy cop comedies in years! Viewers will not only be able to enjoy the vibrant world of Zootopia and reunite with their favorite characters, but also discover more about the evolution of this extraordinary tale through in-depth bonus offerings. The runaway hit arrives home on June 7 via Digital HD, Blu-ray™ and Disney Movies Anywhere.

Features include candid conversations with filmmakers and artists behind Zootopia, an alternate opening, never-before-seen characters and deleted scenes and a sneak peek at some of the hidden Easter Eggs that make reference to Disney Animation’s most beloved films and characters.

Bonus features include*:

BLU-RAY 3D, BLU-RAY & DIGITAL HD:

Zoology: The Roundtables– Ginnifer Goodwin hosts an in-depth look at the movie’s characters, animation, environments and more. The artists at Disney Animation give a rare and in-depth look at the complexities of bringing an all-animal world to life from the ground-breaking technology behind the characters’ fur and clothing to the varied and vast environments of Tundratown, Sahara Square and the Rainforest District as well as the deep thought and research given to bringing 64 unique animal species to life through animation.
The Origin of an Animal Tale– Follow the story’s development from its origins to a big story shift that turned the film upside down. In this feature-length documentary, filmmakers give a candid look into the difficulties of creating the story of Zootopia and the bold decision to switch the main character late in the production process, putting one resolute rabbit center stage.
Research: A True-Life Adventure– The filmmakers traveled the globe to find inspiration for the diverse characters and amazing city of Zootopia. They reflect on the importance of research and how a deep dive into animal behavior at Disney Animal Kingdom theme park and a deep immersion into animal society on the African savanna shaped and inspired the characters of Zootopia and changed the filmmakers’ lives forever.
P.D. Forensic Files– Find the movie’s hidden Easter Eggs. Every city has its hidden gems, especially when it has been created by the filmmakers of Disney Animation who love nothing more than sprinkling hidden references to some of Disney’s greatest animated features throughout the story.
Scoretopia– Academy Award®-winning composer, Michael Giacchino spotlights five of cinema’s greatest percussionists and how they brought an organic, animalistic sound to his powerful and emotional music score.
Deleted Characters – Directors Byron Howard and Rich Moore introduce citizens of Zootopia who did not make the final cut.
Deleted Scenes:
- Alternate Opening–Young Judy Hopps rescues a fellow classmate and realizes she can reach beyond a life in carrot farming to a future in law enforcement.
- Wild Times! Pitch–Nick desperately pitches the bankers of Zootopia on funding Wild Times!, an amusement park made exclusively for the predators of Zootopia and a sure-fire, money-making scheme for Nick and his friends.
- Alternate Homesick Hopps–After a frustrating first day on the force, Judy has a conversation with her parents. See how this scene changed from a heartfelt conversation with her parents to tough love when her parents discover their daughter is only a meter maid and not a “real cop.”
- Detective Work– Judy borrows a fellow police officer’s computer to conduct research, which turns out to be no small task.
- Alternate Jumbo Pop– In this early version of the story where Nick was the main character, the filmmakers and Jason Bateman were able to take hustling to a new level.
- Hopps’ Apartment– When Judy’s entire family pays her a surprise visit they are shocked to discover the company she’s keeping.
- The Taming Party– In this emotional clip from an early version of “Zootopia,” Judy attends her first “taming party” and gains a deeper understanding of the plight of the predator.
“Try Everything” Music Video by Shakira

DVD:

Scoretopia
“Try Everything” Music Video by Shakira

DIGITAL HD EXCLUSIVE:

International Character Reel– See the variances in news reporters in Zootopia around the world!

Directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and produced by Clark Spencer (“Wreck-It-Ralph,” “Lilo & Stitch”), the progressive mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a melting pot where animals from every habitat live side by side and “anyone can be anything.” But when new rabbit police officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives in town she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of tough, hulking animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack an unsolved, challenging case even if it means working with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery. But the case leads these two unlikely partners to an uneasy conclusion that Zootopia’s “evolved” society is being pulled apart by unseen forces determined to use fear to take control of the city by turning predators and prey against each other.

ZOOTOPIA – Pictured (L-R): Judy, Bonnie, and Stu Hopps. ©2016 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Others who helped bring the world of Zootopia to life, include a remarkable roster of voice talent including Idris Elba (BBC’s “Luther,” Golden Globe®-nominated for Netflix’s “Beasts of No Nation”) as Judy’s no-nonsense cape buffalo boss Chief Bogo, Jenny Slate (“Obvious Child,” “Marcel the Shell”) as Assistant Mayor Bellwether, Nate Torrence (HBO’s “Hello Ladies,” Fox’s “Weird Loners”) as charming cheetah Clawhauser,Bonnie Hunt (“Return to Me,” “Jerry Maguire”) and Don Lake (“Dumb and Dumber To,” “The Bonnie Hunt Show”) as Judy’s anxious, but supportive parents, Tommy Chong (“Up in Smoke,” “That ’70s Show”) as Yax the Yak, J.K. Simmons (“Juno,” Oscar® winner for “Whiplash”) as Mayor Lionheart, Octavia Spencer (“Insurgent,” Oscar® winner for “The Help”) as the distraught Mrs. Otterton, Alan Tudyk (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” “Trumbo”) as Duke Weaselton, Shakira as the socially minded international pop star Gazelle, Raymond Persi (“Wreck-It Ralph,” WDAS story artist) as Flash the sloth, Maurice LaMarche (“Pinky and the Brain,” two-time Emmy® winner “Futurama”) as Mr. Big, Tiny Lister (“Friday,” “The Fifth Element”) as Finnick, John DiMaggio (Fox’s “Futurama,” Cartoon Network’s “Adventure Time”) as Jerry Jumbeaux Jr., Katie Lowes(ABC’s “Scandal,” “Big Hero 6”) as Dr. Badger, and Jesse Corti (“Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast”) as Mr. Manchas.

The film is also supported by an emotional and powerful music score created by Michael Giacchino (“Jurassic World,” Academy Award®-winning composer for Disney•Pixar’s “Up”) and an inspiring original song, “Try Everything,” performed by Grammy®-winning, international superstar Shakira (voice of Zootopia’s biggest pop star, Gazelle) and written by Grammy®-winning singer-songwriter Sia and songwriting duo Stargate.

ZOOTOPIA – The Review

ZOOTOPIA is your basic, and very enjoyable, Disney anthropomorphic animal flick, an empowerment tale aimed at bright, dreamy girls that parents (and boys) will still have a lot of fun with. Even if Disney movies aren’t your cup of tea, and you think that there is no more to be said about talking critters, you may be surprised at ZOOTOPIA’s witty and pleasant approach.

The story takes place in the titular ‘Roger Rabbit’-like animal metropolis of Zootopia, a city comprised of habitat neighborhoods like Bunnyburrow, upscale Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown. It’s a melting pot of amicable existence among different animals, with prey and predator living together (more or less) in harmony. When headstrong rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers being the first bunny rabbit on Zootopia’s police force, comprised of much larger animals, isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a missing person (actually missing otter) case, even if it means partnering with motor-mouthed scam-artist fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) to solve the mystery.

While it breaks little ground in terms of animated kids films, the beautifully designed, brightly-hued ZOOTOPIA is breezier and bouncier than most. The animation work is dazzling, lovingly detailed without being overdone. I felt like I could reach out and pet these furry critters, especially in eye-popping 3D. Directors Rich Moore and Byron Howard exhibit admirable control over the material, maintaining a consistently chipper tone, upbeat tempo and bright visual aesthetic without devolving into a hyperactive, collection of gags. The vocal talent well-captures the story’s spirit especially boisterous J. K. Simmons as Mayor Lionheart (a lion, natch) and Jenny Slate as his sheep deputy. Miss Goodwin does a good job expressing the frustrations of Miss Hopps and Bateman is well-cast as Nick, a fox haunted by childhood trauma. Idris Elba is nicely acerbic as the mighty Police Chief Bogo (an ox), though I wish his role had been larger.

Still, in this post-Pixar age, it’s hard not to feel a tad underwhelmed by ZOOTOPIA. Though solid from beginning to end, the writers seem too intent on stuffing the film with warm and fuzzy, but ultimately stifling, lessons about diversity, prejudice, race relations, girl power, acceptance, bullying, etc, etc. While these are timeless themes, all woven together nicely by a crew of filmmakers from the Disney-Pixar trenches, they’re at the expense of big laughs. I’m all for positive values in kid’s films. INSIDE OUT was full of them, but it also had the kind of hearty gut-busters that brought me back for repeat viewings. Oddly, for a movie about tearing down stereotypes, ZOOTOPIA’s funniest gag (seen in the trailer) is a riff on one; everyone’s experience at the DMV, where slow-moving, sloth-like employees often make the experience interminable. ZOOTOPIA may not be perfection, but it’s still highly recommended.

4 of 5 Stars

Win A Family-Four Pack To The Advance Screening Of ZOOTOPIA In St. Louis

The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together—a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything. But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery.

WAMG invites you take the whole family (4 passes) to the advance screening of ZOOTOPIA on Monday, February 29th at 7 pm in the St. Louis area.

Answer the following:

ZOOTOPIA is Walt Disney Animation Studios’ ____ animated feature.

TO ENTER, ADD YOUR NAME, ANSWER AND EMAIL IN OUR COMMENTS SECTION BELOW.

OFFICIAL RULES:

1. YOU MUST BE IN THE ST. LOUIS AREA THE DAY OF THE SCREENING.

2. No purchase necessary. A pass does not guarantee a seat at a screening. Seating is on a first-come, first served basis. The theater is overbooked to assure a full house. The theater is not responsible for overbooking.

Rated PG

For more information, check out the website at http://movies.disney.com/zootopia, like on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/disneyzootopia, and follow on Twitter, http://www.twitter.com/DisneyAnimation, and Instagram, https://instagram.com/DisneyAnimation

DISNEY’S ZOOTOPIA WILD PREMIERE In Hollywood, CA

Last night, the historic El Capitan theater held the red carpet premiere of DISNEY’S ZOOTOPIA, and the stars came out to celebrate!

Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Nate Torrence, Shakira, Jenny Slate, Directors Byron Howard and Rich Moore, co-director/co-screenwriter Jared Bush and more walked the wild carpet, despite the rain. Check out some of the photos, provided by Walt Disney Studios courtesy of Getty Images, below!

362086875,5AA87B5E30FABC3D31B 362082160,F5EFE5336AFD877A28C

HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 17: Actress Kristen Bell (L) and Executive producer John Lasseter take a selfie during the Los Angeles premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Zootopia" on February 17, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Disney) *** Local Caption *** John Lasseter; Kristen Bell

HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 17: Actress Constance Zimmer (R) and Colette Zoe Lamoureux attend the Los Angeles premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Zootopia" on February 17, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney) *** Local Caption *** Constance Zimmer; Colette Zoe Lamoureux

HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 17: (L-R) Guest, Co-Director/Co-Screenwriter Jared Bush, actors Katie Lowes, and Adam Shapiro attend the Los Angeles premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Zootopia" on February 17, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney) *** Local Caption *** Jared Bush; Katie Lowes; Adam Shapiro

HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 17: Actress Ginnifer Goodwin attends the Los Angeles premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Zootopia" on February 17, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney) *** Local Caption *** Ginnifer Goodwin

Directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”), co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”), and produced by Clark Spencer (“Wreck-It Ralph”), Walt Disney Animation Studios’ comedy-adventure “Zootopia” opens in theaters on March 4, 2016. For more information, check out the website at http://movies.disney.com/zootopia, like us on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/disneyzootopia, and follow us on Twitter, http://www.twitter.com/DisneyAnimation, and Instagram, https://instagram.com/DisneyAnimation.

Ginnifer Goodwin And Jason Bateman Featured In New Trailer For ZOOTOPIA

Check out the new trailer for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 55th animated feature ZOOTOPIA.

The comedy-adventure is directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”).

But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery.

ZOOTOPIA – OFFICER HOPPS -- Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) believes anyone can be anything. Being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn't easy, but Hopps is determined to prove herself. Featuring score by Oscar®-winning composer Michael Giacchino, and an all-new original song, "Try Everything," performed by Grammy® winner Shakira, Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Zootopia" opens in U.S. theaters on March 4, 2016. ©2015 Disney. All Rights Reserved. — ©2015 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

The voice cast features Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Shakira, Idris Elba, J.K. Simmons, Nate Torrence, Jenny Slate, Tommy Chong, Octavia Spencer, Bonnie Hunt, Don Lake, Alan Tudyk, Tommy “Tiny” Lister, Raymond Persi, Katie Lowes, Jesse Corti, John DiMaggio.

Featuring score by Oscar-winning composer Michael Giacchino, and an all-new original song, “Try Everything,” performed by Grammy winner Shakira, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ ZOOTOPIA opens in U.S. theaters on March 4, 2016.

Check out the website at http://movies.disney.com/zootopia

Oscar-Winning Composer Michael Giacchino Providing Score For Disney’s ZOOTOPIA

Award-winning composer Michael Giacchino marks his first-ever feature collaboration with Walt Disney Animation Studios for next spring’s big-screen adventure ZOOTOPIA.

Featuring an 80-piece orchestra and conductor Tim Simonec, Giacchino’s score is being recorded this week.

So proud to be a part of Zootopia w my friends @DisneyAnimation – @ByronPHoward @_rich_moore pic.twitter.com/8CSQns8tU6

— Michael Giacchino (@m_giacchino) November 16, 2015

“In a world as vast as Zootopia, we needed someone who could deliver a score that can feel exotic and powerful, but also provide that same emotional intimacy,” said director Byron Howard. “We tell stories with images, Michael tells stories with music. ‘Zootopia’ is a massive film with deep emotional themes running throughout the story, and Michael was the perfect choice to bring the music of this extraordinary animal world to life.”

Added director Rich Moore, “Zootopia is a thriving metropolis inhabited by animals from around globe, and Michael’s music has captured a wonderful international spirit that marries perfectly with the visuals. I’m very excited for audiences to experience this incredible new world we’ve created together.”

According to the composer, the score is very diverse instrumentally. “There are flavors of world music sprinkled in everywhere. But at its core, the score always follows the emotional story of Hopps and Nick.”

Giacchino’s credits feature some of the most popular and acclaimed film projects in recent history, including Disney•Pixar’s “Inside Out,” “The Incredibles” and “Ratatouille,” as well as “Jurassic World,” “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol” and “The Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.” His score for Disney•Pixar’s 2009 feature “Up” earned him an Oscar, a Golden Globe, the BAFTA, the Broadcast Film Critics’ Choice Award and two GRAMMY Awards.

“The process of working with Michael is unique in that it doesn’t feel like a process,” said Moore. “It feels more like visiting with a childhood friend. We started by talking about the film—the themes, the tone, the characters, the emotional moments. We talked about what inspired us, and our hopes for the movie. And from those conversations, Michael began building the score. When we listened to his work together, an amazing thing happened. Michael somehow took those conversations and turned them into music. It’s creative collaboration, pure and simple.”

Said Giacchino, “We’ve had a lot of fun working together and the directors have been wonderfully supportive of me throughout the entire process, giving me an incredible amount of freedom to really explore the tone and emotional side of the story.

“I am really proud to be a part of this film,” continued Giacchino. “It’s one of those films with a huge heart and wonderfully realized characters set within a story that’s not only incredibly fun and entertaining but takes an honest look at our own world and the important issues we deal with living in such a diverse society. That’s what really attracted me to the film—the chance to write music that reflects these kind of challenges.”

Added Howard, “Michael approaches composing from an intuitive, emotional place that’s so completely personal to him, but at the same time, his themes and musical storytelling are completely universal. You fall in love with the music the instant you hear it.”

The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together – a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything. But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery.

Meet all the characters here.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ ZOOTOPIA, a comedy-adventure directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”), and produced by Clark Spencer (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “Lilo & Stitch”), opens in theaters on March 4, 2016.

Meet Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, Duke Weaselton And More From ZOOTOPIA

Walt Disney Animation Studios revealed the roster of voice talent tapped to help bring a voice, snort and a roar to the animal residents of the modern-day mammal metropolis of ZOOTOPIA, which opens in theaters March 4, 2016.

“We had so much fun casting this film,” said director Byron Howard. “‘Zootopia’ features such a large and diverse range of characters – one of our biggest casts ever for a Disney Animation film. We needed talented actors who could help bring these animals to life.”

Adds director Rich Moore, “Everyone in this incredible cast is bringing something special, something unexpected to their characters, which really takes our story to a whole new level.”

Joining Ginnifer Goodwin, who provides the voice of Zootopia’s first bunny officer Judy Hopps; Jason Bateman, who lends his voice to con-artist fox Nick Wilde; and Shakira, who voices international superstar Gazelle, are the following members of the “Zootopia” voice cast.

Idris Elba (Netflix’s “Beasts of No Nation,” BBC’s “Luther”) provides the voice of CHIEF BOGO, head of the Zootopia Police Department. A tough cape buffalo with 2,000 lbs of attitude, Bogo is reluctant to add Judy Hopps, Zootopia’s first bunny cop, to his squad of hardened rhinos, elephants and hippos.

J.K. Simmons (“Juno,” Oscar® winner for “Whiplash”) lends his voice to MAYOR LEODORE LIONHEART, the noble leader of Zootopia, who coined the city’s mantra that Judy Hopps lives by: “In Zootopia, anyone can be anything.”

Nate Torrence (HBO’s “Hello Ladies,” Fox’s “Weird Loners”) lends his voice to the Zootopia Police Department’s most charming cheetah, BENJAMIN CLAWHAUSER. Clawhauser loves two things: pop star Gazelle and donuts. From his reception desk, he greets everyone with a warm smile and a helpful paw—covered in sprinkles.

Jenny Slate (“Obvious Child,” “Marcel the Shell”) provides the voice of ASSISTANT MAYOR BELLWETHER, a sweet sheep with a little voice and a lot of wool, who constantly finds herself under foot of the larger-than-life Mayor Lionheart.

Tommy Chong (“Up in Smoke,” “That ’70s Show”) lends his iconic voice to YAX THE YAK, the most enlightened, laid-back bovine in Zootopia. When Judy Hopps is on a case, Yax is full of revealing insights.

Octavia Spencer (“Insurgent,” Oscar® winner for “The Help”) voices MRS. OTTERTON, a desperate otter who turns to Officer Judy Hopps for help in solving her husband’s mysterious disappearance.

Bonnie Hunt (“Return to Me,” “Jerry Maguire”) provides the voice of BONNIE HOPPS, mother of Judy—and her 275 brothers and sisters. Mrs. Hopps loves and supports her daughter, but is a hare nervous about Judy moving to Zootopia to become a big-city police officer.

Don Lake (“Dumb and Dumber To,” “The Bonnie Hunt Show”) voices Judy’s father, STU HOPPS, a carrot farmer from Bunnyburrow. Along with Mrs. Hopps, he is worried about Judy moving to Zootopia and the untrustworthy big-city mammals who live there—especially foxes.

Alan Tudyk (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” “Trumbo”) returns to Disney Animation’s recording studio for his fourth feature in a row as the voice of DUKE WEASELTON, a small-time weasel crook with a big-time weasel mouth, who tries to give Judy the slip during a police chase.

Tommy “Tiny” Lister (“Friday,” “The Fifth Element”) voices FINNICK, a fennec fox with a big chip on his adorable shoulder.

Raymond Persi (“Wreck-It Ralph,” WDAS story artist) voices FLASH, the fastest sloth working at the DMV—the Department of Mammal Vehicles.

Katie Lowes (ABC’s “Scandal,” “Big Hero 6”) lends her voice to DR. MADGE HONEY BADGER, who heads up all of City Hall’s most pressing medical cases.

Jesse Corti (“Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast”) is the voice of the jaguar MANCHAS, a highly regarded chauffeur who works for the biggest—and shadiest—limo company in town.

John DiMaggio (Fox’s “Futurama,” Cartoon Network’s “Adventure Time”) voices JERRY JUMBEAUX JR., the easily annoyed owner of Jumbeaux’s Café, his elephant ice cream parlor.

Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery.

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Animals Rule In New Teaser Trailer For ZOOTOPIA

“It’s a nod to the great Disney animated animal films we all grew up with, but with a funny, contemporary twist,” says director Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”). “Our artists and animators did tons of research to integrate true animal behaviors into each of our characters. The world of Zootopia is fantastic, infused with international flavor that will be relatable to everyone.”

Here’s your first look at ZOOTOPIA.

The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other.

Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together – a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything.

But when optimistic Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery.

The comedy-adventure is directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”)

From Walt Disney Animation Studios, ZOOTOPIA opens in theaters on March 4, 2016.

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