Remember the heartwarming story of the Mee family’s adventure in “We Bought A Zoo”? The film, released in late 2011, captured our hearts with its tale of resilience, family, and the magic of animals. The story follows Benjamin Mee, a widowed father who impulsively buys a dilapidated zoo in the English countryside, hoping for a fresh start for himself and his children. More than just a story about animals, it was a story about healing, hope, and the courage to chase unconventional dreams. A decade after its release, let’s take a look at what the talented cast of ‘We Bought A Zoo’ has been up to.
The success of “We Bought A Zoo” wasn’t solely dependent on its uplifting narrative. The stellar performance of its ensemble cast truly breathed life into the characters, making their struggles and triumphs all the more relatable. The movie beautifully blended humor, drama, and genuine emotion, leaving a lasting impact on audiences of all ages. The We Bought A Zoo cast was carefully selected and each actor brought something unique to the table, perfectly embodying their respective roles.
Benjamin Mee: The Widowed Father
Matt Damon, a seasoned Hollywood star, took on the lead role of Benjamin Mee, a journalist and widowed father grappling with grief and searching for a new purpose in life. In “We Bought A Zoo,” Damon masterfully portrays the complex emotions of a man struggling to balance his own pain with the needs of his children. The scene where he comforts his son, Dylan, while grappling with his own sorrow is particularly poignant, showcasing Damon’s ability to convey deep vulnerability. His dedication to making the zoo a success, despite the overwhelming challenges, is truly inspiring.
Since “We Bought A Zoo,” Matt Damon has continued to solidify his status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and respected actors. He delivered stellar performances in films like “The Martian,” earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. His portrayal of Mark Watney, an astronaut stranded on Mars, showcased his ability to blend humor with resilience in the face of extraordinary adversity. Beyond science fiction, Damon also starred in the action-packed “Jason Bourne” franchise, reprising his iconic role as the amnesiac assassin. He has also taken on roles in more dramatic fare, such as “Manchester by the Sea” (as a producer) and “Ford v Ferrari”. Recently, he was also featured in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer”. Damon’s career trajectory continues to ascend, with each new role reaffirming his commitment to quality and his unparalleled talent.
Kelly Foster: The Dedicated Zookeeper
Scarlett Johansson brought her trademark charisma and talent to the role of Kelly Foster, a dedicated and knowledgeable zookeeper who helps the Mee family navigate the challenges of running a zoo. In “We Bought A Zoo,” Johansson portrays Kelly as a strong, independent woman with a deep passion for animals and a quiet strength that inspires those around her. Her unwavering commitment to the zoo and her blossoming connection with Benjamin provide a heartwarming subplot to the main narrative. One cannot forget the scenes of her handling the animals with such care, the way she patiently dealt with Dylan, and how her character ultimately brought the Zoo back to its glory days.
Following “We Bought A Zoo,” Scarlett Johansson’s career reached even greater heights, largely due to her prominent role as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Her portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, a skilled spy and Avenger, has become iconic, solidifying her as a global superstar. Beyond the MCU, Johansson has starred in a variety of critically acclaimed films, including “Marriage Story,” which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. She also delivered memorable performances in “Under the Skin,” “Jojo Rabbit,” and “Lucy”. Johansson continues to push creative boundaries, taking on diverse roles that showcase her impressive range and her commitment to challenging herself as an actress. She is a major force in the entertainment industry, and her influence extends far beyond the realm of superhero films.
Duncan Mee: The Skeptical Brother
Thomas Haden Church provided much-needed comedic relief as Duncan Mee, Benjamin’s skeptical but ultimately supportive brother. Church’s portrayal of Duncan is both hilarious and heartwarming, as he grapples with his doubts about Benjamin’s decision while also offering unwavering support to his family. His dry wit and deadpan delivery provide some of the film’s funniest moments, making him a fan favorite.
Since “We Bought A Zoo,” Thomas Haden Church has continued to work steadily in both film and television. He has appeared in numerous comedies, dramas, and independent films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He has appeared in films like “Killer Joe,” “Daddy’s Home,” and “The Peanut Butter Falcon.” He is also known for his role in the critically acclaimed film “Sideways.” Church’s ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles has made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. He continues to deliver memorable performances, solidifying his place as a respected and talented character actor.
Dylan Mee: The Troubled Teenager
Colin Ford delivered a nuanced performance as Dylan Mee, Benjamin’s troubled teenage son who struggles to adjust to his new life at the zoo. Ford effectively portrays Dylan’s anger, grief, and artistic talent, making him a relatable and sympathetic character. His journey of self-discovery and his eventual acceptance of his new family dynamic provide a powerful emotional arc to the film.
After “We Bought A Zoo,” Colin Ford continued to pursue a career in acting, appearing in a number of television series and films. He is best known for his roles in the television series “Supernatural” and “Under the Dome.” He also appeared in the Marvel film “Captain Marvel.” Ford’s career is still on the rise, and he has the potential to become a major star in the coming years.
Rosie Mee: The Optimistic Daughter
Maggie Elizabeth Jones charmed audiences as Rosie Mee, Benjamin’s bright and optimistic young daughter who embraces the zoo with open arms. Jones’s portrayal of Rosie is utterly adorable and heartwarming, bringing a sense of joy and innocence to the film. Her unwavering belief in the zoo and her infectious enthusiasm make her a source of light and hope for the entire family.
While Maggie Elizabeth Jones has kept a relatively low profile since “We Bought A Zoo,” she has continued to act in a few projects. She has appeared in films like “Footloose” and “Identity Thief,” but she is also focusing on her education and personal life. It is safe to assume that she is taking her time to decide where she wants to go next in the acting world.
Peter MacMillan: The Concerned Accountant
Angus Macfadyen played Peter MacMillan, the zoo’s bookkeeper and financial advisor who provides a grounding, pragmatic perspective to the Mee family’s ambitious undertaking.
Since “We Bought A Zoo,” Angus Macfadyen has continued to work steadily in both film and television. One of his most memorable roles was in “Braveheart” and he continues to act in a variety of projects.
Supporting Players: A Glance Back
The We Bought A Zoo cast wasn’t just the main players. Elle Fanning, who played Lily Miska, a young waitress at the zoo, has blossomed into a major star, with roles in critically acclaimed films like “Maleficent”, “The Neon Demon,” and “The Great” TV series. Patrick Fugit, known for his role as Robin Jones, continues to appear in various TV shows and films, carving out a successful career as a character actor. Even smaller roles were filled with talent, contributing to the film’s overall quality.
A Legacy of Heart and Hope
“We Bought A Zoo” was a moderate box office success, but it resonated with audiences on a deeper level. The film received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the performances of the cast, the heartwarming story, and the beautiful cinematography. The film’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes of family, grief, resilience, and pursuing one’s dreams. It’s a film that reminds us that even in the face of adversity, hope and happiness are always possible. The We Bought A Zoo story is based on the real-life experiences of Benjamin Mee, who did indeed buy and renovate the Dartmoor Zoo in England. The film took some liberties with the true story, but it captured the essence of Mee’s journey and the challenges he faced.
A Chapter Closed, a Story Remembered
The We Bought A Zoo cast has moved on to diverse and exciting projects, showcasing their individual talents and solidifying their places in the entertainment industry. From superhero blockbusters to independent dramas, these actors have continued to captivate audiences with their performances. They have all taken on interesting roles in their professional lives. While the zoo may have been the backdrop, it was the talented cast that truly brought the story to life, and their continued success is a testament to the power of their performances. The film serves as a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we never expect. It’s a movie that will continue to inspire and uplift audiences for years to come.