Zootopia 2’s best joke is a genius nod from Disney itself

Zootopia 2 arrives as one of Disney’s most anticipated titles in 2025 and does not disappoint when it comes to intelligent humor. The sequel bets on new dynamics between Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde while delving even deeper into the creative chaos of the animal metropolis. But, between the action sequences and the mystery that drives the plot, one specific detail caught the attention of those who have already watched the film.

The animation hides a joke that carries the complete Disney DNA. In a quick scene, a lion chef has his big secret revealed: just like in Ratatouille (2007), he was being controlled by a mouse hidden inside his hat. It’s one of those moments that passes in seconds, but transforms the film for those who recognize the nod within the nod. Disney has always liked to play with its own references, and here it does it with surgical precision.

This game is the synthesis of what Judy and Nick’s new adventure delivers to the public. The duo returns to the center of the story as Zootopia detectives, now facing an unexpected challenge: Chief Bogo’s order for them to attend the Crisis Partners counseling program. The humor arises not only from the absurd situations, but from the increasingly refined relationship between the two characters.

The Ratatouille reference in Zootopia 2

(Photo: Disclosure/Disney)

Zootopia 2 is a big hit from Disney

The plot gains momentum when a newcomer threatens Zootopia’s routine. Gary De’Snake, a venomous and enigmatic reptile, becomes the center of a case that shakes the entire city. While trying to discover the plan behind the viper, Judy and Nick must explore new regions of the metropolis, putting to the test everything they have learned since becoming partners.

The new areas of the city act as a playground for the duo, revealing new creatures and chaotic situations that expand the franchise’s universe. At the same time, the film does not lose focus on the evolution of the protagonists. The counseling program exposes weaknesses, strengthens the partnership and makes the public follow the duo’s emotional journey with even more empathy.

And, in the midst of all this movement, the film’s best joke fulfills its role in an exemplary way. It shows that Zootopia 2 understands the value of recognizing its own legacy, celebrating its studio and dialoguing with contemporary pop culture. It’s a nod that only Disney could make, and that proves how the sequel maintains the franchise’s freshness even almost a decade after the original.

Watch the Zootopia 2 trailer below: