We Bought a Zoo

Following the death of his wife, Benjamin Mee decides a drastic change of scenery might help his family heal. He buys a decaying countryside zoo and moves in with his two kids, hoping the project will give them something to rally around. The renovation falls on his shoulders as he teams with the seasoned head keeper and a cast of eccentric staff. Animals arrive and the property needs constant attention, while the business side lurks behind every decision. The family learns to handle financial pressures, public skepticism, and the messy, rewarding work of reviving a sanctuary without losing sight of what really matters. Humor and heart keep the story grounded with drama that never forgets the animals or the staff.

Directed by Cameron Crowe and based on Benjamin Mee's memoir We Bought a Zoo, the film arrived in 2011 with a family oriented vibe. It stars Matt Damon as Mee, alongside Scarlett Johansson, Thomas Haden Church and an ensemble cast.

The movie grossed about 120,081,841 worldwide on a 50 million budget, reflecting solid family appeal and broad distribution across North America, Europe, and Asia. It performed steadily over its theatrical run, bolstered by positive word of mouth among global audiences.

The film adds to the trend of uplifting real life scenes with animals, as the zoo becomes a local community hub and a backdrop for family bonding. It emphasizes resilience, rebuilding, and the healing power of care. Audiences respond to its hopeful, grounded drama and accessible upscale charm and warmth.

Reception leaned warm toward the heart of the story, praising the performances and its gentle humor while acknowledging a conventional pace. Viewers often noted the movie's honest portrayal of grief and renewal, along with the anxieties of launching a one of a kind venture, yet its warmth endures for families.