Disney's 'Zootopia 2' Ginnifer Goodwin, "The chemistry between Nick and Judy is magic... the sequel is even more fun"

The sequel to Disney's animated film 〈Zootopia〉, which recorded over $1 billion in box office worldwide in 2016, meets audiences after 9 years. Actress Ginnifer Goodwin, who plays the rabbit police officer Judy, expressed her excitement for the new work during a video interview on the 18th.

Goodwin commented on the fantastic chemistry with Jason Bateman, who plays the fox Nick, saying, "We have never met in the actual recording studio," and added, "Even though we recorded separately, the outstanding chemistry that was created is like magic." She continued, "It is the result of a well-written script and the hard work of hundreds of staff members," praising the production team.

〈Zootopia 2〉 tells the story of Judy and Nick, who have become police officers, saving a city thrown into chaos by the mysterious snake Gary the Snake (Ki Hoi Kwan). The two protagonists, with their different personalities, continue to bicker while realizing each other's importance and building their friendship in this work.

Goodwin explained, "Judy has a flaw of not listening to others well, and Nick lacks seriousness," adding, "This relationship continues in the sequel, and we also grew and were inspired alongside the characters."

Director Jared Bush, who directed the previous film, emphasized, "Maintaining the chemistry between Judy and Nick is the key that runs through the series."

Communication with beings different from oneself, including Nick and Judy, is a core theme that composes the entire film. The new character Gary is central to the film's key message. Traditionally depicted as a villain in Disney animations, the snake takes on a leading role this time. Actor Ki Hoi Kwan, familiar from the movie 〈Everything Everywhere All at Once〉 (2022), plays the role of Gary.

Ki Hoi Kwan recalled, "When I first received the offer to play a venomous snake, I was surprised that my voice was not scary at all," adding, "But after hearing the explanation that the warmth the character brings to the world is important, I became passionate about it." He urged, "Please see him as a character with a playful and warm heart, not a scary snake."

Director Bush stated that through Gary, he wanted to convey the message that "there is value in listening to someone's story," emphasizing the importance of communication.

A distinguishing feature from the previous work is the implementation of new spaces. The new backgrounds, such as the swamp market, created by over 700 staff members, are expected to capture the audience's attention. Director Bush explained, "We focused on creating an attractive swamp market both above and below the water, where various characters, including marine mammals, can be encountered."

A new song featuring Ed Sheeran and Shakira is another highlight of the film. It is composed of an easy-to-sing-along festive atmosphere.

The actors and production team expressed confidence, stating that it is a film everyone worked hard on. Goodwin emphasized, "If I had to choose between 〈Zootopia 1〉 and 〈Zootopia 2〉, I would dare to say the sequel is more fun," adding, "You will not be disappointed at all."

The film is set to be released domestically on the 26th.