Oscars 2017: Predicting The Winners
14. Best Animated Film
Will Win: Zootropolis Should Win: Zootropolis Surprise Win: Kubo and the Two Strings
Disney Animation Studio's output was far stronger than Pixar's last year, and both its films have been nominated in an incredibly strong category. But as charming and thrilling as Moana is, Zootropolis was a box office juggernaut and one of the best films of last year. It was at once familiar and brave new territory for Disney.
It is one of the most powerful commentaries on modern western society in recent years, yet manages to be hilarious and touching, appealing to children and their parents alike. It would be shocking if Zootropolis loses to any of the other nominees. Moana's buzz seemed to die down pretty quickly, and with Pixar's Finding Dory shut out of the category, Zootropolis is the most memorable of the five nominees. It has left much more of an impact on audiences and critics for its imaginative world-building and sweet story of friendship.
It has been surprising just how many nominations Laika's latest epic Kubo and the Two Strings has accrued, so it is not out of the realms of possibility that this stunning technical achievement will be rewarded for its unique vision and incredible visuals. It is the epitome of what an animated film can be.