LOS ANGELES — Beavers take center stage as the unlikely heroes in Disney-Pixar’s latest animated feature, “Hoppers.”
The creative team behind the film views beavers as nature’s environmental champions. To accurately portray these industrious creatures, the filmmakers collaborated with scientists, crafting a narrative that emphasizes the significance of community.
In the world of “Hoppers,” scientists have unlocked the ability to transfer human consciousness into robotic animals, enabling communication with their real-life counterparts.
The protagonist, Mabel, a nature-loving college student, uses this technology to inhabit a robotic beaver, aiming to aid the animals in defending their habitat from human encroachment.
Piper Curda lends her voice to Mabel, and she recalls director and co-writer Daniel Chong’s unique pitch: “When I first spoke with Daniel, he described it as a blend of ‘Mission: Impossible,’ ‘Planet Earth,’ and ‘Avatar.’ I was intrigued and needed to hear more. I was immediately on board.”
Curda describes her character as “small yet fierce, with an incredible spirit,” a trait she admires greatly.
MORE: ‘Hoppers’ stars Jon Hamm, Piper Curda talk about humorous and joyful film at world premiere
Bobby Moynihan is the voice of King George. He’s the leader of the pond.
“There’s a beautiful message in this movie but I don’t think it hits you over the head with it,” Moynihan said. “It’s absolutely beautiful to watch but if you watch it for the storyline itself and just for the heart, it’s equally as useful. It’s wonderful across the board.”
The filmmakers say there was some craziness and chaos that went along with making this movie but they say it also a great time and a joy to bring to the screen.
“When we learned all about beavers and that they create these ponds that can sustain biodiversity, you’re like, ‘My goodness! They’re amazing!’” Chong said, adding that beavers are basically engineers, finding what they do incredible.
There’s a lot going on in “Hoppers,” including a message and plenty of surprise.
“That’s pretty much what we intended,” said producer Nicole Paradis Grindle with a laugh.
“Hoppers” is rated PG. It’s in theaters this weekend.
Disney is the parent company of Pixar and this station.
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