*This article contains spoilers

Pixar's latest film, directed by Daniel Chong, creator of the "We Bare Bears" series, centers on 19-year-old Mabel Tanaka. A passionate animal lover, Mabel is determined to fight actions threatening animal habitats.

She accidentally discovers "hop" technology, which allows human consciousness to be transferred into robots. In the form of a beaver, a species vital to the ecosystem, Mabel explores the animal world with curiosity and excitement.

Trailer for "Hoppers", released domestically on 13/3. The film is rated suitable for all ages. *Video: Walt Disney Studios Vietnam*

"Hoppers" prompts viewers to reflect on nature's harsh realities. Animals accept the laws of survival: predators hunt, and prey are eaten. When Mabel tries to intervene to prevent violence between a bear and a beaver, both animals object, considering it a natural occurrence. This situation highlights the contrast between human ideals and the reality of the wild.

The filmmaking team clarifies the differences between humans and animals through point-of-view shots, simulating what the character sees. From Mabel's perspective, a beaver's dam appears to be a simple structure of earth and logs. Yet, for the beavers, it is a carefully engineered construction designed to control water flow.

The distinctness of each species is also evident in a scene where animals convene to discuss how to deal with humans. They share a common language but exist in separate "kingdoms", such as frogs, butterflies, or snakes. Mabel approaches the problem with human logic, prioritizing reasoning and long-term goals, which conflicts with the animals' instinct-driven survival mindset.

The film's fast-paced editing and continuous camera angle changes create dialogues that are both humorous and tense. This transitions the film to the issue of balancing development with conservation, posing the question: how can humans truly understand and coexist with all species?

Character designs for Mabel's beaver robot (right) and George, the "king of mammals". *Photo: Walt Disney Studios*

The film explores environmental and social issues that are difficult to resolve through confrontation, instead requiring compromise. While conveying a familiar message, the movie uses a fast pace and many entertaining elements to avoid feeling preachy.

The project showcases Pixar's visual strengths with vivid character and setting designs. The forest environment is depicted with bright colors, reflecting the four seasons. Exaggerated action sequences, like a shark speeding down a highway, are handled with a fast tempo and playful style.

The animation techniques in "Hoppers" provide flexible expression, supporting the conveyance of emotions and story progression. *Photo: Walt Disney Studios*

On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, critics consider "Hoppers" Pixar's most entertaining work to date. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian notes the script's humor and flexible storytelling. Its playful adaptation of familiar motifs from "Avatar", "The Lion King", or "Dr. Dolittle" makes the film relatable yet fresh. The script avoids imposing a single interpretation, allowing audiences to ponder the story's meaning.

According to Variety, the film demonstrates Hollywood's renowned animation studio's willingness to experiment with storytelling, offering a new experience for audiences. However, the project does not reach the caliber of classics like "Toy Story" or "Inside Out". The antagonists lack psychological depth, diminishing the film's central conflict.

By Cat Tien