Exploring the Making of "Zootopia" and Its Theme of Discrimination

Exploring the Making of "Zootopia" and Its Theme of Discrimination

Introduction:
Disney animation films have always been loved for their ability to bring animals to life, giving them the ability to talk, walk on two legs, and wear human clothing. However, after the release of "Chicken Little" in 2005, Disney had not produced a film that fully satisfied this criteria, except for the remake of "Winnie the Pooh." It wasn't until John Lasseter's comeback to Disney in 2006 that the concept of "talking animals" began to reemerge. One of the notable films that emerged from this resurgence was "Zootopia," which explored the theme of discrimination. In this article, we will delve into the making of "Zootopia" and analyze whether the movie truly embodies the theme of discrimination.

The Collaborative Effort Behind "Zootopia":
"Zootopia" credits three directors: Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and co-director Jared Bush. While having multiple directors in the animation industry is not uncommon, it is clear that creative director John Lasseter had a significant influence on the film. However, it would be too simplistic to dismiss the film as a result of collective effort without further exploration.

The Power of Research:
Extensive research was conducted before the production of "Zootopia," revealing an intriguing statistic that 90% of mammals are prey, while only 10% are predators. This statistic became the foundation for the creation of a diverse range of stories centered around the relationship between the majority and minority. By utilizing this data, the film was able to tackle the theme of discrimination and give it a unique perspective.

The Unstoppable Journey of "Zootopia":
By the fall of 2014, "Zootopia" had become an unstoppable force, with voice actors and staff members fully committed to the project. The film was slated for release in March 2016, leaving no room for delay. Everyone involved understood the urgency and importance of meeting the deadline. It seemed that there was no turning back at this point.

Andrew Stanton's Intervention:
However, in November 2013, Andrew Stanton, from Pixar, attended a screening and expressed his concerns about the film. Stanton's critique focused on the mistreatment of the character Nick, suggesting that the audience sees the world through his eyes. Stanton questioned whether anyone would want to live in a world that made Nick's life difficult. This intervention forced the team to reconsider their approach to the story and the portrayal of discrimination.

The Power of Collaboration:
Rich Moore, one of the directors, acknowledged the collaborative nature of working in a studio. He highlighted the need for everyone to come together and serve the film that was next in line, even if it meant temporarily halting their own projects. This spirit of collaboration allowed the team to address the concerns raised by Stanton and reevaluate their storytelling choices.

Unique Insights and Actionable Advice:

1. Discrimination is a complex theme that requires thorough research and understanding. By incorporating factual data, filmmakers can create a more nuanced and thought-provoking narrative.
2. Accepting constructive criticism is crucial for the success of any creative project. Andrew Stanton's intervention served as a wake-up call for the team, leading to a reevaluation of their approach and ultimately improving the film.
3. Collaboration and teamwork are essential in the creative process. When everyone is invested in the success of a project, they are willing to put their own work aside and contribute to the greater goal.

Conclusion:
"Zootopia" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the exploration of important themes such as discrimination. Through extensive research, collaborative efforts, and the acceptance of constructive criticism, the film was able to deliver a thought-provoking narrative. By incorporating these lessons into our own creative endeavors, we can strive to create impactful and meaningful stories that resonate with audiences.