The Zookeeper and His Family: The Heart of the Story
A family’s audacious dream of running a zoo, filled with exotic animals and even more eccentric personalities, captured the hearts of audiences in Cameron Crowe’s 2011 film, “We Bought A Zoo.” More than just a feel-good movie, it was a story about grief, resilience, family bonds, and the transformative power of taking a leap of faith. The film, inspired by a true story, showcased a stellar “We Bought A Zoo Cast” who brought the narrative to life with depth and authenticity. This article explores what the talented performers of “We Bought A Zoo” have been up to since their time amidst the lions, tigers, and bears, offering a glimpse into their careers and lives beyond the wild world of the Dartmoor Zoological Park.
The film’s success hinged on the believability and charisma of its central characters, especially the Mee family. The “We Bought A Zoo Cast” brought authenticity and emotional depth to the roles.
Matt Damon: Benjamin Mee, the Determined Dad
Before taking on the role of Benjamin Mee, the widowed father who impulsively buys a zoo, Matt Damon was already a household name. From his breakout role in “Good Will Hunting” (which he co-wrote and won an Oscar for) to action-packed thrillers like the “Bourne” series and critically acclaimed dramas like “The Departed,” Damon had solidified himself as one of Hollywood’s leading men. His casting in “We Bought A Zoo” added a layer of gravitas and heart to the film.
Since the release of “We Bought A Zoo,” Damon’s career has continued to flourish. He starred in Ridley Scott’s science fiction hit “The Martian,” earning another Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He returned to the “Bourne” franchise with “Jason Bourne,” proving his enduring appeal as an action star. Damon has also continued to work with acclaimed directors, appearing in films such as “Suburbicon,” directed by George Clooney, and “Ford v Ferrari,” where he played Carroll Shelby. More recently, he teamed up again with Ben Affleck for “The Last Duel,” a historical drama they co-wrote. His consistent output of quality films confirms his place as a major force in the industry, proving his talent extends far beyond the gates of the Dartmoor Zoo. Matt Damon’s portrayal of Benjamin Mee remains a touching reminder of his range as an actor, a key element in why the “We Bought A Zoo Cast” continues to be so fondly remembered.
Scarlett Johansson: Kelly Foster, the Dedicated Zookeeper
Scarlett Johansson, playing the dedicated zookeeper Kelly Foster, provided a grounded and pragmatic counterpoint to Benjamin Mee’s sometimes impulsive nature. Already a rising star before “We Bought A Zoo,” with memorable roles in films like “Lost in Translation” and “The Prestige,” Johansson brought a quiet strength and depth to her character.
Her career trajectory since “We Bought A Zoo” has been nothing short of meteoric. Johansson became synonymous with Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), appearing in numerous films including “The Avengers,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Captain Marvel,” and finally headlining her own solo film, “Black Widow.” Her portrayal of Black Widow has become iconic, cementing her status as a global superstar.
Beyond the MCU, Johansson has continued to take on diverse and challenging roles. She received critical acclaim for her performance in “Marriage Story,” earning both Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations. She has also lent her voice to animated films like “Sing” and “Isle of Dogs.” With her continued success and her evolving influence in Hollywood, Johansson remains a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Her presence in the “We Bought A Zoo Cast” added significant star power and helped draw a large audience to the film.
Thomas Haden Church: Duncan Mee, the Skeptical Brother
Thomas Haden Church, as Benjamin’s skeptical but ultimately supportive brother Duncan, brought a comedic sensibility and grounded realism to the “We Bought A Zoo Cast.” Church had already established himself as a versatile actor with roles in films like “Sideways” (for which he received an Academy Award nomination) and “Spider-Man 3.”
Since “We Bought A Zoo,” Church has continued to work steadily in both film and television. He has appeared in films such as “Killer Joe,” “John Carter,” and “Daddy’s Home.” On television, he starred in the HBO series “Divorce” alongside Sarah Jessica Parker. He has also lent his voice to animated projects like “Planes.” Church’s ability to blend humor and heart has made him a consistently engaging performer, and his role in “We Bought A Zoo” is a perfect example of his talent for playing relatable and complex characters. The dynamic between Damon and Church as brothers added another layer of emotional complexity to the film.
Colin Ford: Dylan Mee, the Rebellious Teenager
Colin Ford played Dylan Mee, Benjamin’s angsty teenage son who initially resists the idea of moving to a zoo. “We Bought A Zoo” was a significant role for Ford, who had previously worked primarily in television.
Following the film, Ford continued to build his acting career, primarily in television. He had a recurring role on the popular series “Supernatural” and starred in the Netflix series “Daybreak.” Ford has also appeared in films such as “Captain Marvel” and “All These Small Moments.” As he transitioned from child actor to young adult performer, Ford has demonstrated a commitment to his craft and a willingness to take on diverse roles. His portrayal of the conflicted Dylan in “We Bought A Zoo” was a crucial element in the film’s exploration of family dynamics and healing. He added the adolescent angst that the “We Bought A Zoo Cast” needed.
Maggie Elizabeth Jones: Rosie Mee, the Optimistic Young Daughter
Maggie Elizabeth Jones, as the adorable and relentlessly optimistic Rosie Mee, stole the hearts of audiences. Her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering belief in her father’s dream were essential to the film’s emotional core.
Since “We Bought A Zoo,” Jones has continued to act, appearing in films such as “Footloose” (remake) and “Identity Thief.” She has also guest-starred on television shows like “Ben and Kate.” While she hasn’t been as prolific as some of her “We Bought A Zoo Cast” colleagues, Jones has remained active in the industry, balancing her acting career with her education. Her portrayal of Rosie remains a cherished memory for fans of the film.
Supporting Players: Adding Depth to the Zoo’s World
The success of “We Bought A Zoo” also rested on the strength of its supporting cast, who populated the world of the zoo and brought their own unique quirks and perspectives to the story.
Angus Macfadyen: Peter MacMillan, the Reliable Zookeeper
Angus Macfadyen played Peter MacMillan, another zookeeper who helped with the Dartmoor Zoo. He has been in projects such as “Braveheart”
Since the movie, Macfadyen has been involved in various movies, such as “Robert the Bruce”
Elle Fanning: Lily Miska, the Local Girl with a Crush
Elle Fanning, as Lily Miska, the local girl who develops a sweet crush on Dylan, brought a youthful innocence and charm to the film.
Since “We Bought A Zoo,” Fanning has become one of the most sought-after young actresses in Hollywood. She has starred in films such as “Maleficent,” “The Neon Demon,” “20th Century Women,” and “The Beguiled.” Fanning has received critical acclaim for her performances, showcasing her versatility and her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters. She has also become a fashion icon, known for her distinctive style and her red-carpet appearances.
Behind the Camera: The Visionary and the Real Story
The “We Bought A Zoo Cast” was expertly guided by director Cameron Crowe, known for his films that blend heart, humor, and a fantastic soundtrack. Crowe’s direction brought out the best in the actors and created a film that resonated with audiences on an emotional level. The film was inspired by the true story of Benjamin Mee and his family’s experience running the Dartmoor Zoo in England. This real-life connection added another layer of authenticity to the film and contributed to its enduring appeal.
Legacy and Impact: A Film That Still Resonates
“We Bought A Zoo” isn’t just a feel-good movie; it’s a story about overcoming adversity, embracing change, and the importance of family. The film’s message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with audiences today. The “We Bought A Zoo Cast” delivered performances that were both heartfelt and believable, drawing viewers into the world of the Dartmoor Zoo and making them invested in the Mee family’s journey. The film’s success also brought increased attention to the Dartmoor Zoo itself, raising awareness about animal conservation and the challenges faced by zoos around the world. The movie demonstrated the real world challenges of running a zoo.
Conclusion: A Heartwarming Tale and a Talented Ensemble
“We Bought A Zoo” remains a beloved film for its heartwarming story, its beautiful cinematography, and, most importantly, its talented cast. The “We Bought A Zoo Cast,” led by Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson, brought the Mee family’s extraordinary story to life with depth, humor, and genuine emotion. The film’s enduring legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of actors to connect with audiences on a profound level. While the animals provided the spectacle, the actors were the heart of the film. The actors in the “We Bought A Zoo Cast” have continued to thrive in the years since its release, proving that their talent extends far beyond the gates of the zoo. “We Bought A Zoo” reminds us that even in the face of loss and uncertainty, there is always hope, and that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we never expect.
