Zootopia 2 Breaks Box Office Records in China, Sparking Discussion on Societal Themes

Shanghai, China – Disney's highly anticipated sequel, Zootopia 2, has shattered box office expectations, becoming the first Hollywood film to gross over $100 million in a single day in China, surpassing the previous record held by Avengers: Endgame. The film's release on November 26, 2025, comes nine years after the original, a gap noted by many fans and commentators.The remarkable success in China underscores the original film's deep cultural resonance, particularly evident in its dedicated themed land at Shanghai Disneyland. As one social media user, 奶奶 capital, observed, "Zootopia is super China coded. 1/3rd of the girls at SH disneyland are in judy hopps cosplay." This sentiment is supported by the immense popularity of Zootopia-themed merchandise and attractions, with the Shanghai Disneyland Zootopia land, opened in December 2023, seeing its merchandise sales soar over 500 percent. Popular items like the Judy Bucket Hat and Nick Fluffy Hat highlight the characters' strong appeal.Beyond its commercial triumph, the film continues to draw discussion regarding its underlying themes. The same social media user characterized the original as "fundamentally a pro law-enforcement movie about a technocratic utopia of animals that have built infrastructure mega projects (climate walls)." The sequel's plot introduces "weather walls," which play a pivotal role in the narrative, suggesting a continuation of these infrastructural and societal themes.Zootopia 2 picks up with officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde navigating their partnership within the Zootopia Police Department. Their dynamic is tested as they pursue a mysterious reptilian resident, Gary De'Snake, uncovering secrets about the city's past, including the true origins of the weather walls and the historical segregation of reptiles. This exploration delves deeper into the societal structures of Zootopia, prompting audiences to consider the film's commentary on law enforcement, social integration, and the complexities of an ostensibly utopian society.The film, directed by Jared Bush and Byron Howard, features returning voice talents Ginnifer Goodwin as Judy Hopps and Jason Bateman as Nick Wilde, alongside new additions like Ke Huy Quan as Gary De'Snake. Critics have largely praised the sequel for its dazzling visuals, sophisticated humor, and emotional depth, with many noting its ability to expand on the predecessor's themes while maintaining its engaging narrative. The overwhelming reception in China further solidifies Zootopia's global impact as a franchise that resonates both commercially and culturally.