With the new Zootopia movie set to be released later this year, it’s the perfect time for the comic world to be reminded of just how great this property is. Zootopia is a great read for all ages, with clever visuals that adults will enjoy as well. It also serves as a reminder that the world-building in this anthropomorphic adventure series is excellent.
As a fan of the original film, which somehow celebrated its 9th anniversary in March of this year, it’s safe to say that the creative team understands their task. The characters speak and act like themselves, the city is robust with new locations to explore, and the overall atmosphere is bright and fun.
Writer Jeff Parker and artist Alessandro Ranaldi open Zootopia #1 in a police station, where Wilde and Hopps are given daily assignments by a police sergeant. They were assigned to help handle the crowd at the airport’s smartphone unveiling. It’s not a very adventurous detail, but knowing these characters keeps things confusing and the pace quick.
The overall look of this book is great.
Credit: Dynamite
Ranaldi does a lot to animate these characters beyond the usual comic book renderings. For example, the sergeant’s smoke cloud conveys his arrogant assertiveness, an element that would be impossible in most realistic settings. During moments of action, panels are filled with a good level of speed lines and impressive visuals, adding an extra sense of animation. At one point, when Wilde dodges something, his face gets streaked in a cool-looking way that’s usually only seen in animation.
Hopps and Wilde’s facial expressions are great, and you can clearly see the difference in their attitudes. The energy and movement visuals are also vibrant, with great chase sequences that show Wilde’s smarts and Hopps’ agility when he has to take action. The only thing that distinguishes it from the manga is the use of Benday dots. This adds a nice shadow effect to the foreground characters and the details of the wild’s tail.
Outside of the action, this is also a detective story, with a good mystery established in this issue. Hops can also wear a detective hat, which leads to the arrest of the criminal. The fact that there is an interrogation scene shows that Parker wants a thorough police procedural.
If there’s one missing element, it’s the relationship between Wilde and Hopps. They are friends and partners, but there isn’t much going on between them like in the first film. Their relationship at the end of the movie continues here, so don’t expect much bonding or character growth from either of them.
The Zootopia comic book series is a fun return to a vibrant and clever world of anthropomorphic adventures, rich in humor, mystery, and energetic visuals. Although it lacks the emotional depth of the main character, it is an excellent all-ages film and remains a highly enjoyable read for fans of the original film and newcomers alike. Perfect for anyone craving a hearty detective story that’s fun and light-hearted.
Zootopia #1 is a fun and entertaining detective story
Zootopia #1
The Zootopia comic book series is a fun return to a vibrant and clever world of anthropomorphic adventures, rich in humor, mystery, and energetic visuals. Although it lacks the emotional depth of the main characters, it is an excellent all-ages film and remains a highly enjoyable read for fans of the original film and newcomers alike. Perfect for those craving a hearty detective story that’s fun and light-hearted.
Wilde and Hopps are faithfully portrayed, with engaging dialogue and accurate character portraits.
Clever visual gags and expressive character designs make it appealing to all ages.
Dynamic artwork by Alessandro Ranaldi. It combines animation-style visuals with a comic book flair.
The limited focus on the relationship dynamics between Wilde and Hopps is a missed opportunity for deeper character development.
