Random selection led me to the theater and the next two hours with Matt Damon. Okay, it wasn't painful...he is fabulous...and this movie made me like him even more!

As a single mother who faced the challenges that come with raising young children and the struggles they face individually, I related to the issues faced by Benjamin Mee as he took on the task of single parenthood. We Bought a Zoo is the film adaptation based on Benjamin Mee's autobiography. 

Immediately, I was hooked. The endearing manner in which Matt Damon portrays Mee's character captures the audience's heart immediately. However, one tiny actress stole the show, surpassing Damon's performance - the amazing Maggie Elizabeth Jones. The family dynamics within this struggling family is skillfully brought to life on the screen and we watch with genuine heart-warming joy as they work through each issue, bonding with each other along the way. 

Unfortunately, Scarlett Johansen's character lacked the luster and believability as Damon's counterpart. Perhaps Ms. Johansen's extreme talent has slotted her into expectations for stronger characters as a whole. This role did not deliver and the audience was left wanting more. 

Animal lovers will find this film rewarding as the story of Mee's efforts to rescue the zoo and its exotic inhabitants at his own personal expense is presented so eloquently. Beautiful footage of striking animals grace the film motivating the audience to support causes such as Mee's. One would anticipate zoos everywhere will benefit from the message of this film and rightly so. Julie Yorn's production is a productive demonstration of one man's efforts making a significant difference.

Without a doubt, I can recommend this unexpected tribute to one man's achievement to anyone looking for that "feel-good", wholesome family film. We Bought a Zoo is a definite must-see for the holiday season.