We Bought A Zoo *** (PG)

Mark Glass | Dec 23, 2011, 1:19 p.m.

We Bought A Zoo * (PG) Matt Damon stars in this sentimental family dramedy about a widower with two kids, clueless on how to be an effective parent, since his wife had always maintained their home while his career as a globe-trotting journalist prepared him more for surviving in war and disaster zones than PTA meetings and carpools. The teenaged son has become particularly problematic, while the younger daughter is still too much of a dreamer to drive daddy nuts. Looking for a fresh start in new surroundings away from the big city, Damon buys the rundown remnants of a private zoo outside San Diego. The acreage comes with over 40 species, some of which were endangered, in a fairly natural setting; a handful of employees (including Scarlett Johansson); and a huge burden of renovations that must be done in short time and even shorter funds to avoid losing the whole thing.

The film plays out fairly predictably, with satisfying levels of humor and Valuable Lessons for all ages. The proceedings would simply add up to a pleasant diversion as a work of fiction. But as a fact-based account of a family’s unlikely entry into such an unusual occupation, the feelgood component is greatly enhanced. The warm fuzzy story elements play out nicely, steering clear of the emotional overkill that seems to be irresistible to less savvy writers and directors than Cameron Crowe. Among his body of work this may not rank with Jerry Maguire, but at least it’s not another Vanilla Sky. (12/23/11)