The first hour of this film really builds a great and heartwarming, feel-good film, however it's second half is filled with moments that feel so awkward due to its writing, i understand that it's based on a true story however the farther/son dynamic is really poorly done in this film, had this film been longer and better written in parts, it would have allowed for a longer build up of emotion so that the inevitable clash of the farther and son can really hit the marks its aiming for. Ultimately it's a solid film with a great cast who really give the film its feelgood tone and even with moments of awkwardness, it still manages to hit most of the right notes.

Just rewatched this movie today and thought I should add a review. I genuinely do not know how this movie didn’t become more popular. Light-hearted, intense, inspiring I mean it truly has it all. Great watch if you have kids too, absolutely would recommend for all age groups.

"Their happy is too loud" really got me

Best movie ever in my opinion, me and my dad used to watch this constantly I LOVE IT.

We Bought a Zoo is a comfort film. The story is told with simplicity and charm. From the delightful score to the bright setting, this film is endlessly rewatchable. Matt Damon's raw performance creates a strong emotional connection. There are multiple times where I was brought to tears because of what his family is experiencing. The film is not perfect (the script is a little underdeveloped and there are some editing inconsistencies), but it is beautiful. Additional Note: The ten minutes at the end of the second act are so emotionally driven and strong! Another Additional Note: The "Why not?" scene at the end is the cherry on top.

We Bought A Zoo is an entertaining, earnest and a heart-warming movie.

This is a good family movie Con: The Idea that Dylan Mee (Colin Ford) would be a asshole to Lily Miska (Elle Fanning) is crazy do not care that his mom died this would not happen.

This family movie was great. Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson, Elle Fanning, Colin Ford, Maggie Elizabeth Jones, Thomas Haden Church, and the rest of the cast did a great job in this movie. This true story about a family buying a zoo was dramatic, heartfelt, and amazing. It's about trying to start over and creating a better life for you and your family. If you haven't seen this movie yet, check it out sometime. It's a must see.

The fact that this move got the rating it did is a travesty. I just watched a MUCH MORE POPULAR Avengers movie and this is WAY BETTER in a different way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Such a moving and beautiful film, a genuine masterpiece

A movie you can watch as a child, and watch again as an adult and have very different feelings after it.

Low key charmer. The story is unusual, but it grows on you, as do the lead performances by Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson.

Great first half. The little girl was precious and nearly made me weep. The son, worthless, self involved and lazy drove me nuts but I guess that was the idea. Second half too overtly melodramatic. Too many challenges too conveniently timed. Lost me with the fallen tree and a crowd waiting behind it. The very end in the restaurant explaining how he met the kids mother was taking sappy beyond reason. The premise was silly in the first place the guy would have gone bankrupt before it opened. The viewer could accept that as poetic license but when they pile on him mooning over his dead wife constantly and all the setbacks the 4 stars became three stars. JB Smoove playing a part without cussing all the time was a highlight but couldn't get it back to four stars.

Really good movie thank you will like it James Welch, Henderson, Arkansas June 24, 2023.

A nice film. I liked the music a lot.

A predictable feel good movie that doesn't break any new ground. Damon tries hard but can't save this movie from being anything but average.

Not utterly terrible, but pretty bad. Could have been so much better. Never have I seen such wasted talent.

We Bought a Zoo is an exceptionally charming film that plucks it heartstrings with excessive force but is backed by strong likeable performances and of course its incredible true events.

Over the top mushy and cutsie. The taking care of a zoo part is entertaining though.

Loved it. Such a feel good fun movie. So worth a watch.