The Making of "Zootopia": Is the Theme of Discrimination Present?

The Making of "Zootopia": Is the Theme of Discrimination Present?

"Zootopia" is a Disney film that captivated audiences with its talking animals, bipedal walks, and animals wearing human clothes. The film was a passion project for John Lasseter, who had a deep love for Disney animation that featured these unique elements. However, since the release of "Chicken Little" in 2005, there hadn't been a Disney film that fully embraced these requirements, except for the remake of "Winnie the Pooh." Lasseter made his comeback to Disney in 2006, and the concept of "talking animals" was once again in play.

The credits for "Zootopia" list three directors: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and co-director Jared Bush. Having multiple directors for an animated film is not uncommon in the industry. With Lasseter as the creative director, it was evident that he had a significant influence on the project. However, simply attributing the film's success to a collaborative effort would undermine the intricate details and themes explored in the movie.

Extensive research conducted during the film's development revealed an intriguing statistic: approximately 90% of mammals are prey, while only 10% are predators. This statistic became the foundation for the diverse storytelling in "Zootopia," focusing on the dynamics between the majority and minority. By using this concept in the film, the creators were able to explore themes of discrimination and create a compelling narrative.

With the voice actors and staff assignments finalized, "Zootopia" became an unstoppable force in the fall of 2014. The film was set for release in March 2016, leaving no room for delays. Everyone involved was aware of the critical deadline, and there was a sense of urgency to ensure the film's completion.

However, in November 2013, a person emerged who sought to halt the unstoppable train of progress. During a screening with Pixar personnel, Andrew Stanton expressed his dissatisfaction with the world depicted in "Zootopia" and how Nick, one of the main characters, was treated within it. Stanton believed that the audience would perceive the entire world through Nick's eyes, leading him to question who would want to live in a world that made Nick's life difficult. This critique forced the filmmakers to reassess their approach and delve deeper into the themes of discrimination that they were exploring.

The collaborative nature of working in a studio environment meant that everyone had to stop what they were doing and contribute to the film that was next in line. This sense of unity and dedication to the project was necessary to ensure its success.

In a similar vein, Rhizomatiks, a research institution focused on expressive research and development, operates at the intersection of art and entertainment. Their emphasis on technological and expressive capabilities allows them to tackle projects ranging from software and hardware development to operation. Their pursuit of new possibilities in technology and expression is demonstrated through experimental projects that incorporate strong research and development elements.

By combining the concepts explored in "Zootopia" with the innovative approach of institutions like Rhizomatiks, we can further push the boundaries of storytelling and expression in the entertainment industry. Through collaboration between artists, researchers, and technological experts, we can continue to create cutting-edge works that resonate with audiences.

In conclusion, the making of "Zootopia" showcased the importance of thorough research and the exploration of unique themes. Through collaboration and dedication, the filmmakers were able to create a film that not only entertained but also addressed important social issues. To apply these lessons to our own lives and work, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Embrace diversity: Just as "Zootopia" celebrated the diversity of animal species, we should embrace diversity in our own lives and work environments. By fostering inclusivity and welcoming different perspectives, we can create richer and more meaningful experiences.

• 2. Challenge stereotypes: "Zootopia" challenged stereotypes associated with different animal species. Similarly, we should question and challenge societal stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination. By promoting understanding and empathy, we can build a more inclusive society.

• 3. Collaborate across disciplines: The collaboration between Disney and Rhizomatiks demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. By bringing together experts from different fields, we can unlock new possibilities and push the boundaries of creativity.

By applying these lessons from "Zootopia" and embracing the spirit of collaboration and inclusivity, we can create a world that celebrates diversity and challenges discrimination.