The Top Romance of the Year Is … an Animated Kids’ Movie?

In a recent hit, two unlikely partners in law enforcement navigate a high-stakes world with contrasting personalities: one is sarcastic, quick-witted, and effortlessly casual, while the other is driven, idealistic, and focused on justice. Their relationship has moved past initial encounters and early adventures, entering a phase where they and the audience must determine if their chemistry is genuine. Surprisingly, these are not human leads in a romantic comedythey are Nick Wilde, a fox voiced by Jason Bateman, and Judy Hopps, a rabbit voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin, from Disneys animated family blockbuster Zootopia 2.

Released during Thanksgiving, the movie presents itself as a buddy-cop story set in a meticulously designed city inhabited by anthropomorphic animals. Yet, for viewers older than 16, it has become a surprisingly romantic tale. Fans on Reddit and TikTok have been celebrating the duo, comparing their dynamic favorably to literary couples and even recommending books featuring male leads reminiscent of Nicks charm. Online reviews echo the sentiment that this childrens film carries the essence of a classic rom-com, with many admitting they never expected to root for a fox and bunny pairing.

For longtime fans, this romantic undertone is not entirely new. Even when the original Zootopia premiered in 2016, the idea of Nick and Judy as a potential couple inspired abundant fan art and stories, including the infamous Zootopia abortion comic, which imagined a dramatic scenario involving the characters child.

While the concept of romanticizing cartoon animals might seem extreme, the sequel cleverly incorporates romance tropes that resonate with audiences. For instance, Nick and Judy engage in fake dating to blend into social situations, triggering jealousy and intimate moments that reveal hidden emotions. Nicks selective use of Judys name during moments of worry reflects a classic cynic with a soft heart dynamic, familiar in romance storytelling.

The movies climax emphasizes emotional stakes over physical ones, as Nick risks everything to save Judy, culminating in a tense, heartfelt embrace. This PG-rated restraint allows viewers to imagine the romance, making it particularly appealing to fans who enjoy subtlety over overt romantic resolution. One Reddit user praised the pairings charm: It works because its innocent, ambiguous, and fits naturally within the Zootopia universe. Others suggest the filmmakers are expertly teasing audiences, maintaining tension without committing to a definitive romance.

Zootopia 2 also hints at future developments. The post-credits scene features Judy repeatedly playing a recording of Nick professing his love, much to the neighbors annoyance. Jason Bateman teased the possibility of even more for fans in the next installment, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next for the celebrated #WildeHopps pairing.

Author: Maya Henderson