I expected a silly kids movie where the events of the first movie are nearly forgotten and Kitty Softpaws barely makes an appearance, because for some reason movies like to erase the fact that love interests even existed.
I did not get that.
I got a movie with memorable characters, fantastic and understandable motivations all around, and a sidekick I didn't hate, which is shocking for a kids movie because they're normally annoying as hell.
The one character that was meant to be a caricature with no more depth than to be a spoiled rich kid was done well; he was different from the other characters and yet it was obvious he was meant to be that way. It was enjoyable even if you didn't feel sympathy toward him like the others.
And the other villain!!! He was so frickin' cool!!! His motivation was understandable and crystal clear and his design was so cool, and his personality!!! GOD I got excited every time he came on screen
I'm trying my best not to spoil anything, just... do yourself a favor and watch this movie. It isn't often that sequels are better than the original, but it is definitely the case this time.