What is Mr. Big in Zootopia? Unveiling the Tundra Town Crime Boss

Zootopia, the critically acclaimed animated film, presents a vibrant world populated by anthropomorphic animals. Among its many memorable characters, one stands out for his unexpected size and formidable presence: Mr. Big. But what is Mr. Big in Zootopia, beyond just a tiny shrew with a big attitude? This article delves into the character of Mr. Big, his role in the film, and his surprising inspiration.

The Unexpected Don: Who is Mr. Big?

Mr. Big is the feared and respected crime boss of Tundra Town, a frigid district within Zootopia. He leads a gang of polar bears and other arctic mammals, running various illicit operations. Despite his diminutive stature, Mr. Big commands absolute authority and is not to be trifled with. His introduction in the film is a masterclass in subverting expectations; he appears as a seemingly harmless shrew, only to be revealed as a ruthless and powerful figure.

His full name is revealed to be Mr. Biggie Cheese. This adds a layer of humor to the character, contrasting his small size with a grandiose moniker. It’s a subtle detail that contributes to the overall comedic effect of Zootopia.

Mr. Big’s Role in the Zootopia Narrative

Mr. Big plays a crucial role in the film’s plot. Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde inadvertently cross paths with his organization while investigating the missing mammal cases. Initially, they are captured and brought before Mr. Big, facing dire consequences for disrupting his business. However, Judy’s quick thinking and a past favor owed to her by Mr. Big’s daughter, Fru Fru, save them. This encounter provides Judy and Nick with a vital clue, propelling them further into the central mystery of the film.

Beyond his plot significance, Mr. Big embodies several key themes within Zootopia. He highlights the dangers of prejudice and the importance of looking beyond appearances. His small size belies his power and influence, challenging the assumptions that the larger, traditionally more intimidating animals hold over the city. Mr. Big also underscores the complex nature of Zootopia’s society, demonstrating that even in a seemingly utopian world, crime and corruption can thrive.

The Godfather Connection: Inspiration Behind Mr. Big

The character of Mr. Big is a clear homage to Vito Corleone, the iconic mafia boss from The Godfather. From his calm demeanor to his soft-spoken threats, Mr. Big embodies many of the characteristics that made Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Corleone so memorable. The wedding scene in Zootopia, where Judy and Nick are brought before Mr. Big, mirrors the opening scene of The Godfather, further solidifying the connection. The use of Italian-American stereotypes in the crime boss shrew adds a layer of cultural commentary to the character, highlighting the ways in which familiar tropes can be reinterpreted and subverted in animation. Mr. Big is a caricature, but also a clever nod to cinematic history.

The writers and animators of Zootopia carefully crafted Mr. Big’s appearance and mannerisms to evoke the spirit of The Godfather. His luxurious office, his impeccably tailored suit, and the respectful deference shown to him by his polar bear henchmen all contribute to the impression that he is a figure of immense power. The juxtaposition of his small size with his imposing presence creates a comedic effect, but it also reinforces the idea that power can come in unexpected packages.

Mr. Big’s Impact on Zootopia’s World-Building

Mr. Big’s presence enriches the world-building of Zootopia. His existence demonstrates the city’s diverse social and economic landscape, showcasing the presence of organized crime and the power dynamics that exist beneath the surface of its seemingly harmonious society. He shows the audience that even in a progressive, diverse city, the darker elements of society still exist. He is a reminder that prejudice and corruption can manifest in unexpected ways.

Furthermore, Mr. Big’s control over Tundra Town highlights the importance of different districts within Zootopia. Each district has its own unique culture, environment, and set of challenges. Tundra Town, with its icy climate and predominantly arctic mammal population, is a breeding ground for certain types of crime and illicit activities. Mr. Big’s organization thrives in this environment, taking advantage of the specific opportunities and vulnerabilities that it presents.

Analyzing Mr. Big’s Character Design and Animation

The character design of Mr. Big is a significant element of his appeal. The choice of a shrew, one of the smallest mammals, as the head of a powerful criminal organization is inherently humorous and unexpected. His oversized suit, meticulously tailored to fit his tiny frame, further emphasizes the contrast between his appearance and his authority. The animators paid close attention to his facial expressions and body language, conveying a sense of both menace and sophistication.

His voice acting also contributes significantly to his character. Maurice LaMarche delivers a performance that is both understated and commanding. His soft, deliberate tone of voice makes Mr. Big’s threats all the more chilling. The contrast between his gentle delivery and the violence he is capable of ordering adds to the character’s unsettling and memorable presence. Every detail, from his tiny stature to his impeccable manners, is carefully crafted to create a character that is both funny and frightening. When asking what is Mr. Big in Zootopia, it is important to consider the elements of design, animation, and voice acting that contribute to the character’s overall impact.

Mr. Big’s Popularity and Fandom Reception

Mr. Big has become a popular character among Zootopia fans. His unexpected appearance, his memorable lines, and his connection to The Godfather have all contributed to his enduring appeal. He is often featured in fan art, cosplay, and other forms of creative expression. Many fans appreciate the character’s complexity and the way in which he subverts expectations. He is a reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that power can come in many forms.

His popularity has also led to his inclusion in various Zootopia merchandise and spin-off media. He has appeared in video games, comic books, and other adaptations of the film. This demonstrates the character’s lasting impact on the Zootopia franchise and his ability to resonate with audiences of all ages.

The Significance of Mr. Big’s Daughter, Fru Fru

Fru Fru, Mr. Big’s daughter, plays a significant role in the narrative. Her life is saved by Judy Hopps earlier in the film, creating a debt that Mr. Big is honor-bound to repay. This plot device highlights the importance of family and loyalty within Mr. Big’s organization. It also demonstrates that even a ruthless crime boss can have a soft spot for his loved ones.

Fru Fru’s character design is also noteworthy. She is depicted as a stylish and fashionable shrew, reflecting her privileged upbringing. Her appearance contrasts with her father’s more traditional attire, suggesting a generational shift in attitudes and values. Fru Fru’s presence adds another layer of complexity to Mr. Big’s character, revealing a more nuanced and human side to the otherwise intimidating crime boss.

Mr. Big’s Legacy in Zootopia and Beyond

Mr. Big’s legacy extends beyond the confines of Zootopia. He has become a symbol of unexpected power and the importance of looking beyond appearances. His character has been analyzed and discussed in academic papers, film reviews, and online forums. He is a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted characters and the ability of animation to explore complex themes and ideas.

In conclusion, what is Mr. Big in Zootopia? He is more than just a tiny shrew with a big attitude. He is a complex and multifaceted character who embodies themes of prejudice, power, and the importance of family. His presence enriches the world-building of Zootopia and provides a memorable and entertaining experience for audiences of all ages. He is a testament to the creativity and artistry of the filmmakers and a reminder that even the smallest characters can have a big impact. [See also: Zootopia Character Analysis] [See also: The Godfather and Zootopia] [See also: Zootopia Themes and Messages]