Zookeeper
Directed by Frank Coraci
- comedy
- romance
- family
The story
Kindhearted Griffin Keyes is one of the best-loved caretakers at the Franklin Park Zoo, but he's more comfortable with the animals than with females of his own species as proven by his failed marriage proposal to the self-absorbed Stephanie several years ago. The animals have listened to Griffin pine over her for years and, after she reappears in his life, they decide to help Griffin rekindle the relationship and become the alpha male she wants him to be. They inadvertently reveal their secret ability to talk and, after Griffin's initial shock, teach him the rules of courtship, animal-style. Surprisingly, the animals' advice really works and Griffin is about to get everything he's ever dreamed of--or is he?
What it’s like
Bright, sun-washed zoo daylight and bustling city-park exteriors give Zookeeper a bright, glossy studio-comedy surface, with saturated greens, warm animal enclosures, and a lot of wide, even, conventionally lit coverage that favours readable gags over mood. Its vibe is light, good-natured and a little goofy, the kind of easy watch for a lazy Saturday afternoon, a family movie night with mixed ages, or a low-effort comedy on the couch. The rhythm is brisk and frequently interrupted by talking-animal set pieces, pratfalls and one-liners from the animals, with music that is cheerful and unobtrusive. Emotionally it stays warm and sentimental: a sweet-natured man who is more at ease with animals than people slowly gains confidence and learns to trust his own instincts about love. Intensity is low: some crude jokes, mild innuendo around dating and romance, slapstick mishaps and light peril, but no real violence, gore or frightening material. It suits people who want a gentle, undemanding laugh and a feel-good ending, and families or fans of Kevin James's broad, affable comedy.
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