Zootopia

It might take place in a fictional world of anthropomorphic animals, but the message of Zootopia strikes a very human chord.

This 3D animated comedy has the expected combination of kid-friendly slapstick and pop-culture send-ups, but underneath that slick surface it promotes a message of tolerance and empowerment — among predators and prey — that’s both uplifting and provocative.

It follows a diminutive small-town rabbit named Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin), who aspires to become the first bunny cop in the metropolis of Zootopia.

Initially relegated to parking-ticket duty, the relentless go-getter tries to earn the trust of her elephant and hippo colleagues, as well as the gruff buffalo Chief Bogo (Idris Elba).

Fortunately, she finds emotional support from a sheep (Jenny Slate) who serves as assistant mayor. But Judy’s resolve is tested during an encounter with Nick (Jason Bateman), a con-artist fox who initially becomes her nemesis.

However, Judy is anxious to make her mark. So when she begins digging into a missing-persons case, against the advice of her superiors, the resourceful Judy uncovers a potential web of corruption that requires Nick’s fast-talking skills to unravel.

The screenplay offers an amusing satire of cops and crime movies, with a healthy mix of sight gags and one-liners that provide some big laughs. An extended sequence involving a DMV office staffed entirely by sloths is a hilarious highlight.

There’s some genuine charm beneath the relentless idealism and optimism of the pint-sized underdog protagonist. The charismatic voice cast also includes J.K. Simmons, Octavia Spencer, Bonnie Hunt and pop star Shakira. Meanwhile, the film’s crisply detailed animation brings its imaginative urban landscapes to vibrant life (although the 3D upgrade is unnecessary, in this case).

As directed by animation veterans Rich Moore (Wreck-It Ralph) and Byron Howard (Tangled), Zootopia showcases some zany animal antics for kids and some clever jokes for parents.

Yet although some other gags feel labored and the story is steered in predictable directions, the film successfully transitions in the final act into a more serious examination of paranoia, heroism and public perception that shows how these animated creatures might be smarter than their live-action human counterparts in terms of embracing diversity.

Rated PG, 108 minutes.