HOPPERS Review: A Bold, Original Adventure with Heart
Disney + Pixar’s latest original adventure, Hoppers, is a meaningful addition to its 30-film library, and a strong reminder of why original storytelling still matters. In a slate increasingly filled with sequels, this imaginative, standalone adventure feels especially important. It’s heartfelt, funny, environmentally conscious, and anchored by a message simple enough for kids to grasp: alone, life is hard; but together, we can accomplish so much more. Even younger viewers who may not catch every twist of the narrative will walk away understanding that powerful truth.
The story centers on Mabel Tanaka (voiced by Piper Curda), an animal-loving kid who feels isolated from the world around her. Right from the start, Hoppers taps into that familiar childhood loneliness — a feeling most of us can relate to. Mabel finds comfort in nature, guided by a meaningful lesson from her grandmother, and eventually seizes the chance to use groundbreaking technology that allows her to “hop” her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver. Through this wild premise, she gains the ability to communicate directly with animals. From there, the story launches into full Pixar fantasy mode.
What follows is a sprawling adventure as Mabel befriends the charismatic beaver King George (Bobby Moynihan) and rallies the animal kingdom against an imminent human threat: smooth-talking mayor Jerry Generazzo (Jon Hamm). The ensemble cast includes Meryl Streep, Dave Franco, and Kathy Najimy; all adding depth and humor, while director Daniel Chong (We Bare Bears) keeps the tone playful without losing sight of the emotional core.
Yes, the premise stretches reality, but that’s part of the fun. Once you accept that mind-hopping into adorable woodland creatures is possible, the film’s world opens up in delightful ways. The animal designs are irresistibly round, fluffy, and expressive. From beavers and bunnies to butterflies, bears, and deer, every creature pulls you deeper into this vibrant ecosystem.
If the premise reminds you of Avatar, you’re not alone, and neither are the filmmakers. The screenplay cleverly acknowledges the similarities, showing that the creative team is in on the joke. Directed by Daniel Chong (We Bare Bears) and produced by Nicole Paradis Grindle (Incredibles 2), the film balances big laughs, heartfelt emotion, and surprising environmental insight, all underscored by an energetic original score from Mark Mothersbaugh.
One small hurdle the film faces may actually be its theatrical poster. Featuring a bear with a gleeful beaver dangling from its mouth, it could give the impression of a more chaotic, survival-of-the-fittest comedy (the story does introduce the concept of “Pond Rules,” where animals eat one another without prejudice). It’s a minor nitpick, but I genuinely want this film to soar at the box office. Its success could signal that audiences still crave bold, original stories alongside beloved franchises.
Beyond the laughs and action, Hoppers sneaks in some fascinating real-world science. Did you know beavers are considered keystone species? According to the film’s beaver science consultant, Dr. Emily Fairfax, a single beaver family can transform entire ecosystems. Their dams and hand-dug canals slow water flow, promote lush vegetation, and attract thriving wildlife communities. As Fairfax describes them, beavers are “earth’s great engineers.” It’s a compelling detail that reinforces the film’s environmental themes without ever feeling preachy.
Ultimately, Hoppers stands out not just for its creativity, but for its heart. Mabel is a strong, compassionate role model — determined, brave, and unafraid to stand up for what she believes in. If the film inspires even a few kids to take a greater interest in protecting animals and the natural world, it will have accomplished something truly special.Don’t miss this one. It’s cute, crowd-pleasing, emotionally resonant, and a genuinely fun time at the theater for both kids and adults. Hoppers debuts in theaters March 6, is rated PG, and runs 1 hour and 45 minutes. Let us know what you think @skywalkingpod!
