The School of Visual Arts (SVA) is celebrating the achievements of its alumni at the 52nd Annual Annie Awards, recognizing excellence in animation. Among the honorees is Michael Giacchino (BFA 1990 Film and Video), a testament to SVA’s continued influence in the world of animated filmmaking. Giacchino’s nomination for Best Music in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2 highlights the school’s commitment to fostering top talent in the industry.
Zootopia 2, a sequel to the critically acclaimed 2016 film, has garnered attention not only for its animation and storytelling but also for its innovative musical score. The film follows detectives Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman respectively, as they investigate a latest case in the vibrant city of Zootopia. The story centers around a snake, played by Ke Huy Quan, who has infiltrated the reptile-free metropolis. This latest installment pushes the comedic elements further while maintaining the emotional depth of the original, a goal achieved in part through Giacchino’s dynamic score.
Giacchino, a longtime Disney composer with an Oscar win for Pixar’s Up under his belt, has consistently delivered memorable scores for animated features like Coco, Ratatouille, and Inside Out. His work extends beyond animation, encompassing Marvel and Star Wars films, Disney live-action features, and even his directorial debut, Werewolf By Night. Still, the creative process for Zootopia 2 presented a unique challenge. According to reports, directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard requested a score that was, in their words, “dumber.”
This unconventional direction led Giacchino to create what he described as “the most insane score I’ve ever written,” as reported by Polygon. The score reportedly features rapid shifts in style, moving from down-home banjo to 1970s cop show themes, French bistro music, and even heavy metal, all within a single cue. Despite the seemingly chaotic approach, Giacchino asserts that the music feels cohesive when viewed alongside the film’s exaggerated, antic comedy.
The pursuit of a more “cartoony” sound was a central theme during a September press preview for Zootopia 2, with Bush, Howard, and others emphasizing the film’s comedic ambitions. This approach is reflected in the film’s music, which aims to amplify the humor and energy of the visuals. The soundtrack also features the new single “Zoo,” performed by Shakira, adding another layer to the film’s sonic landscape, as noted by Disney+ Press.
While Giacchino’s nomination at the Annies didn’t result in a win, his inclusion among the industry’s best underscores his talent and the quality of his work on Zootopia 2. The film itself has been recognized as an Academy Award nominee, celebrated for its humor, heart, and animation. Michael Giacchino’s official website details his involvement in the project, showcasing the complexity and creativity behind the score.
The success of Zootopia 2 and the recognition of its creators, including SVA alumnus Michael Giacchino, demonstrate the continued strength of animation as an art form and the vital role that institutions like the School of Visual Arts play in nurturing the next generation of storytellers. As the animation industry continues to evolve, SVA graduates are poised to remain at the forefront of innovation and artistic expression.
The future looks bright for SVA alumni in animation, with ongoing projects and emerging talent continually shaping the landscape of the industry. What new stories will SVA graduates bring to the screen next? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
