The Snake in Zootopia 2: A Tale of Inspiration and Controversy

Unraveling the Tale of Gary De'Snake

Last week, as "Zootopia 2" graced theaters, Gary Goldman, a seasoned screenwriter, found himself caught in a whirlwind of emotions. Having previously battled Disney in court over the rights to the original film, he was drawn to the new installment not just as a fan but as a man feeling profoundly impacted by its characters.

Goldman's primary concern? The newly introduced character of Gary De'Snake. He claims that this venomous pit viper is based on him. "It's virtually impossible for me to interpret it any other way," he insists, raising eyebrows and questions about the blurred lines of inspiration in the entertainment industry.

The Long Road of Legal Battles

Goldman's journey in the film industry is a complex one. With over four decades in Hollywood, he's written for major productions, but his most notable moments arose from his legal struggles with Disney. He initiated a lawsuit against the studio, claiming they copied his original ideas for "Zootopia." His assertions included similarities in theme, character design, and even the title itself.

“They copied Goldman's themes, settings, plot, characters and dialogue — some virtually verbatim,” the lawsuit alleged.

However, the courts dismissed Goldman's claims, leaving him in a state of frustration. Despite his earlier losses, the release of “Zootopia 2” reignited a flicker of hope — or perhaps, a sense of irony, when he recognized a character bearing his name and characteristics.

What Makes Gary De'Snake Stand Out?

The narrative in "Zootopia 2" sees Gary De'Snake arriving in a vibrant animal metropolis and claiming credit for the high-tech innovations that allow various species to coexist. Goldman expressed a mix of amusement and disbelief that his alleged portrayal would come across as the studios giving a nod – or perhaps a subtle jab – at him.

In the film, Gary De'Snake is depicted as a good-natured character, turning the narrative of his story into one of redemption rather than villainy. Goldman and his wife Judith question whether this portrayal could be viewed as Disney's way of acknowledging their past grievances, albeit through a fictional lens.

Public Perception and Industry Insight

The reaction to Goldman's claims has been mixed. While many in the industry sympathize with his struggles, others view his assertions with skepticism. “Is this meant as some kind of confession? An incredibly expensive Easter egg?” Goldman quipped, reflecting on how such a character could arise post-litigation.

Friends of Goldman have also chimed in, calling the similarities between him and the animated character striking, highlighting Gary De'Snake's expressive eyes—which resemble Goldman's own.

The Power of Intellectual Property

This situation raises essential questions regarding intellectual property in a world where inspiration is often derived from myriad sources. Are characters in animated films merely imaginative creations, or can they bear a closer resemblance to real people than one might think?

“Inspiration is subjective,” said an industry expert. “We see the stories we want to see and often project our narratives onto character arcs.”

As businesses like Disney navigate the treacherous waters of intellectual property, it's essential for creators and audiences alike to engage critically with these narratives, questioning what constitutes genuine inspiration versus appropriation.

The Future Ahead

Despite initial frustrations, Goldman and his wife have stated they are in a "strange spot" and emphasize that pursuing further legal action could lead to complications considering their earlier defeats. They acknowledge that the scenario has become more complex with the introduction of a character who shares his name and experiences.

For now, the Goldmans are choosing to observe how audiences react to "Zootopia 2" and its portrayal of Gary De'Snake. The portrayal may not change their past, but it has certainly renewed their perspective on how narratives are created and represented within the entertainment industry.

Concluding Thoughts

The interplay between creativity and legality in Hollywood continues to fascinate and frustrate. As the storyline of Gary De'Snake unfolds on screen, it invites audiences to ponder not just the ethics of storytelling but also the dimensions of inspiration versus appropriation in the arts. Perhaps, in Goldman's case, this is less about a battle against Disney and more about living through a narrative that blurs the lines between fiction and reality.

As we digest this tale, I am inclined to reflect on the broader implications of representation and recognition within our creative industries. It might be time to establish more transparent dialogues about the lines of inspiration—that can keep both creators and their ideas safe.