Disney has navigated a tumultuous landscape in the 2020s, attempting to reconcile traditional theatrical releases with the demands of a rapidly evolving streaming market. The years have produced a strikingly diverse array of animated films, ranging from immediate classics to notable disappointments. As the studio releases the much-anticipated Zootopia 2, it offers an opportune moment to assess the animation output from 2020 to late 2025.
Assessing the 2020s Animated Landscape
The decade has been marked by a blend of original stories and sequels, resulting in an unpredictable quality of content. Critics and audiences have expressed confusion over the studio’s creative direction, as some films achieved cult status while others faded into obscurity shortly after release. The recent addition of Zootopia 2 serves as a significant capstone to this period, prompting a closer look at each film’s merits.
6) Wish is an early example of a misstep, intended to be a hallmark of Disney’s centennial celebrations. The story centers on Asha (voiced by Ariana DeBose), who discovers that the charismatic King Magnifico (voiced by Chris Pine) is hoarding the wishes of his citizens. While the premise offered potential, the execution felt more like a corporate product than a genuine tribute. Critics noted a lack of narrative cohesion, describing the film as overly reliant on Easter eggs and references, leading to a villain who lacked depth.
Following closely is Moana 2, which debuted nearly a decade after its predecessor. This sequel, which originated as a Disney+ television series, features Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) and the demigod Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson). The film suffers from a fragmented narrative that detracts from the mythic quality of the original, resulting in jagged pacing and underdeveloped characters. Despite its visual appeal, the absence of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songwriting left a noticeable void in the musical numbers.
Highlighting the Standouts
On a more positive note, Raya and the Last Dragon introduced audiences to a vibrant world inspired by Southeast Asian cultures. The film, which premiered on both theatrical and streaming platforms, features thrilling action sequences and remarkable visual storytelling. Following the warrior Raya (voiced by Kelly Marie Tran), the narrative explores themes of trust and unity. However, some critics pointed out a lack of thematic clarity, suggesting that its resolution felt overly simplistic given its complex backdrop.
Another notable entry is Strange World, which faced challenges at the box office, largely due to insufficient marketing. The film tells the story of the Clade family, legendary explorers navigating a fantastical ecosystem. Despite its ambitious visual style and clever narrative twists, audiences found the environmental themes heavy-handed, which detracted from its emotional impact.
In contrast, Zootopia 2 has emerged as a critical triumph, reuniting Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman). The film tackles complex societal themes while maintaining the humor and charm of the original. Critics have praised its animation quality and depth, suggesting it is one of Disney’s best sequels.
At the pinnacle of this decade stands Encanto, which has captured the cultural zeitgeist. The story revolves around Mirabel (voiced by Stephanie Beatriz), the only ordinary member of the magical Madrigal family. The film’s exploration of generational trauma resonated with audiences, and its soundtrack, particularly the hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” achieved global acclaim. Encanto’s success lies in its ability to blend specific cultural elements with universally relatable themes, setting a new benchmark for Disney musicals.
As the animated landscape evolves, Disney continues to grapple with its legacy while adapting to new storytelling formats. The varied reception of these films illustrates the challenges inherent in balancing innovation with audience expectations. What remains clear is that the studio’s exploration of both familiar and new narratives will significantly shape its future direction.
