Back in 2016, Disney released Zootopia, going back to its roots of lovable animated animals. It's been a whopping nine years (How time flies!) since we were introduced to Disney’s number one mammalian odd couple, who first made their acquaintance in the film. Now, officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are back on the case, one that could shake the city to its very foundations.

Even though the duo saved the city once, as partners of the Zootopia Police Department, they’re still considered rookies. This doesn’t sit well with Judy, who is as hungry to do good as ever, while laid-back Nick wants to stay on the down-low and get through the day without catching Chief Bogo’s eye.

Reptiles have not been welcome – or even – seen for a century in Zootopia, but suddenly, on the eve of a very special event held by the wealthy and influential Lynxly family, one dares to show up and steal an old family heirloom. Ke Huy Quan, who captured everyone’s hearts as Short Round in Indiana Jones and later recaptured everyone’s attention in Everything Everywhere All At Once, joins the duo as Gary De’Snake, a thieving reptile who isn’t exactly what he appears to be. Of course, assigned or not, Hopps and Wilde find themselves neck-deep in a conspiracy that could cost them their fur.

Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman reprise their roles as Hopps and Wilde, bringing the same charm and chemistry that made the first movie fun and memorable.

The Disney magic is on full display as we follow the two friends through Zootopia’s familiar streets, as well as explore new locations. The animation is amazing as always, with the level of fine detail you’d expect from the family-favorite studio. The film boasts a host of new characters across 67 animal species, many of whom are voiced by some very big names. Be on the lookout for voice cameos by Michael J. Fox, Ed Sheeran, Dwayne Johnson, and John Leguizamo, among others.

The first film didn’t shy away from more grown-up themes, tackling discrimination between herbivores and predators. Zootopia 2 does the same thing as well. Much like the city that, on its surface, shows harmony and progress while hiding a dark underworld, the movie’s polished and colorful visuals, when peeled back, reveal a story of greed, corruption, and misinformation.

The kittens, pups, and cubs in the audience will love the fluffy animals, the fast-paced adventure and mystery, but will also trot away having imbibed the themes of friendship and partnership.

A clean, hilarious romp through the city and world inhabited by talking animals, Zootopia 2 is a sequel that stands shoulder to shoulder with the original. There is enough fun and laughter to keep the kittens, pups, and cubs, and those of us with our inner kittens, pups, and cubs, locked onto the screen.

Zootopia is now showing in theaters. Be sure to catch it!