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What do these two popular animated films really teach our kids—and how should we approach their upcoming sequels in 2025?
As Christian based homeschool families, we’re called to be vigilant about what we allow into our homes and into our children’s hearts. Movies are powerful tools—shaping not just what our children laugh at, but what they believe is right and wrong. So when two high-profile animated films like Zootopia and The Bad Guys both have sequels set to release in 2025, many parents might be asking: Is this content aligned with our family’s values.
🦊 Zootopia: Well-Animated, But Is the Message Clear?
On the surface, Zootopia is a colorful, clever movie about a small-town bunny chasing big-city dreams. But the film quickly introduces complex themes around identity politics, stereotyping, and systemic prejudice—ideas that many parents might feel too mature or ideologically loaded for children.
What parents might like:
✔ Strong lead character who works hard
✔ Positive lesson about not judging others
✔ Quality visuals and animation
What might raise concerns:
❌ Heavy political undertones tied to real-world social agendas
❌ “Naturalist colony” scene with nudity played for laughs—unnecessary and inappropriate
❌ Subtle reinforcement of left-leaning messaging under the guise of inclusion
In summary:
The message may be fine in theory, but the delivery felt more like social programming than storytelling. It didn’t sit right with us as a Christian family.
Scripture tie-in: Use James 1:5 to discuss discernment when consuming media, and Philippians 4:8 to evaluate what’s truly pure and admirable.
🐺 The Bad Guys: A Refreshing Message of Redemption
The Bad Guys surprised many parents. Despite being about a group of criminals, the movie centers on the value of second chances, inner change, and resisting peer pressure—all wrapped in humor and action that’s genuinely family-friendly.
What parents might appreciate:
✔ Clear contrast between good and bad behavior
✔ Focus on taking responsibility and choosing to do right
✔ Redeemable characters with moral growth
Why it stands out:
The story doesn’t glorify crime—it actually condemns it and rewards virtue. That’s rare in today’s media.
The tone was fun without pushing modern agendas. It felt safe to enjoy with our whole family.
Scripture tie-in: Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…” This movie opens the door to talk about transformation and making godly choices.
🎬 Why Now Is a Good Time to Revisit (With Caution)
Both Zootopia 2 and The Bad Guys 2 are scheduled for release in 2025. That means now is the right time to preview (or rewatch) the first movies—but with thoughtful conversations before and after viewing.
Here’s how Christian families might approach these films:
- Watching together, not as passive entertainment
- Using Scripture as a lens to evaluate what is good, true, and worth celebrating
- Being mindful of underlying messages that contradict biblical truth or traditional values
- Turning entertainment into teachable moments
👨👩👧👦 Final Thoughts for Biblical Based Families
Zootopia raises complex social issues, some of which may conflict with traditional values and biblical truth. It may be best suited for older children with parental explanation—or skipped entirely depending on your family’s standards.
The Bad Guys, on the other hand, offers a lighter, clearer moral lesson without pushing modern ideologies. It promotes the idea that people can change, and that doing good is not only possible—but worth it.
It could summarize this way:
We want to raise kids who are not just entertained but equipped. The Bad Guys helped us reinforce biblical character, while Zootopia left us having to filter out too much noise.
