Benjamin (Matt Damon) has recently become a widower father to this two children, Dylan and Rosie. Its a struggle, as everyone is still grieving the loss of their family member and learning to adjust. Teenage Dylan, especially, is troubled, as he draws creepy pictures and acts out in school. All too soon, he is expelled. Therefore, Benjamin decides, over the objections of his accountant brother, Duncan (Thomas Haden Church) to buy a home on the very outskirts of the Los Angeles area. Rosie loves the house at first site and so does Benjamin. The trouble is, however, that the large property is very unique. It has a small zoo on the premises! Woweee. Yes, there's lions and tigers and one big Grizzly bear, among other animals. The small staff includes head zookeeper Kelly (Scarlett Johanssen) and her teen niece, Lily (Elle Fanning). Since Benjamin knows nothing about operating a zoo, there is much to learn and many bills to pay. Also, although Rosie is happily residing in the new digs, Dylan is grouchier than ever, for none of his friends bother to come and visit him and he doesn't seem to want to begin a new friendship with Lily. As money problems, animal health problems, staff problems, and kid problems pile up one by one, will Benjamin rue the day "We Bought a Zoo"? This is a lovely film for fans who don't need explosions or car chases to entertain them. Its a sweet, funny story, based on fact, and its beautifully shot. In addition, the cast is great, playing very genuine and flawed characters. Damon does a nice dad while Johanssen drops a bit of glam to play an outdoorsy type, with nice results. Church, especially, steals scenes easily while the child actors steal hearts just as smoothly. Then, too, animal lovers will delight in the various creatures and their antics, although a few tears may fall as well. If this all sounds like good news to you, then, what else? Go buy a ticket for a good "buy" in family viewing.