The upcoming sequel to Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 2016 hit, Zootopia 2, is slated for release this winter. A new teaser trailer and teaser poster for the film have just been unveiled, bringing fresh excitement to fans of the franchise.

Set in a world where no humans exist and animals live together in harmony (and sometimes discord), the original Zootopia captured hearts worldwide with its tale of Judy, an ever-optimistic rabbit police officer who never gives up on her dreams, and Nick, a sly yet charming fox con artist. Its compelling message about prejudice and bias resonated with audiences across generations.

The film earned both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe, becoming the first Disney Animation feature since Frozen to gross over $1 billion globally. In Japan alone, the movie generated over ¥7.6 billion in box office revenue, turning into a cultural phenomenon. The franchise has since expanded into various formats, including the Disney+ original series Zootopia+, theme park attractions, and a wide range of merchandise.

In the upcoming sequel, Nick—now officially a police officer after graduating from the academy—reunites with Judy, the first rabbit on the force, to form a dynamic duo once again. Their new mission begins when a mysterious snake named Gary suddenly appears in Zootopia. His arrival sets off a series of events that leads the pair to uncover a massive hidden mystery tied to the city's history. As they dig deeper, their bond will be tested like never before.

The newly released teaser opens with a classic Zootopia twist: a performance by LEMEEENS, a techno group made up of lemmings, playing an original song titled “ZUTU” on electronic piano.

According to director Byron Howard, who returns from the first film, “This song was created by the group who recently opened for Gazelle on tour, to welcome the world back into the city of Zootopia.”

Just as Judy and Nick appear on screen, a new character makes his dramatic entrance—Gary the Snake (full name: Gary de Snake)—who is revealed to be a central figure in the story. He flees the scene, dragging the two officers along with him. Gary is apparently being pursued by Chief Bogo and his team, and the teaser showcases high-energy chase sequences as Judy, Nick, and Gary dash through various parts of Zootopia.

The visual journey includes entirely new locations not seen in the original film—wetlands home to semi-aquatic animals like beavers, expansive desert dunes, towering cliffs, and snow-covered arctic zones. These fresh settings suggest a grander, more expansive adventure awaits.

Familiar characters from the first movie make brief appearances in the teaser, adding to the anticipation. In the closing moments, a mysterious, cloaked figure stands before Judy, Nick, and Gary—hinting at a deeper conspiracy and a new villain tied to Zootopia’s hidden history involving reptiles like Gary.

With its rich world-building, surprising twists, and emotionally resonant storytelling, Zootopia 2 promises another thrilling ride. Jared Bush, who co-directed and co-wrote the original, also returns for this sequel. Now serving as Disney Animation’s new Chief Creative Officer, Bush commented:

“We’re thrilled to welcome audiences back to Zootopia. Get ready for a laughter-filled journey through never-before-seen parts of the city.”

The teaser visual features Judy and Nick playfully entangled by Gary, whose flexible body humorously forms the number “2.” This not only teases the sequel but also highlights Gary’s central role in the upcoming adventure.

Zootopia 2 Japanese Teaser Trailer

Source : ORICON NEWS