Our Zoo

This is a good bbc drama although it is a dramatised version of the true story. I wanted to challenge the point another reviewer who says we cannot justify zoos in the modern world. That is an idiotic statement and one that is what is wrong with the world at the moment. Zoos are more important than they ever have been. They are key in conservation and education. They are breeding animals that are in danger of going extinct and educating people all over the world in why animals need to survive rather than killing them directly or indirectly. It's a shame the internet has allowed ignorant people a voice.

Think4Yourself thinks... (6 stars). This was a delightful and inspiring story that was hurt by inconsistent writing that made the characters act in strange ways just to create drama and conflict. If they would have stuck to the main story this deserving show could have earned more than one season. It filled a niche that is under-represented on TV, a light, friendly story that revolves around science and nature and ambition. The cast was entertaining and Lee Ingleby did a fine job as the lead.

I always enjoy a good period drama and "Our Zoo" is just that kind of story. A bingeable series based on true events. I was rooting for George and his dream the whole time. It's a great story, with a wonderful cast and on top EOG that it is family friendly! So 3 out of 3 made it a winner in my book.

The charm of 'Our Zoo' is that it is based on the incredible true story of a man called George Mottershead, who with his family in the 1930s had a vision to build a zoo without bars. This zoo is Chester Zoo and today has been named by trip adviser as No 1 in the UK and is the most visited tourist attraction in the UK outside London. Also pleasing to know is Chester Zoo has also evolved with the times and today is now heavily involved in conservation work.

George despite having no formal higher education was a pioneer in keeping animals in enclosures without bars. He wasn't very wealthy but was determined to create a zoo where animals would be happier and well cared for. Incredibly resourceful as well as being quite a risk taker, he was also very fortunate to have the support of his family, who had strengths which complemented his own and were willing to work hard to make the zoo a success. In 1930, it was the time of the depression and George was able to purchase 'Oakfield' a manor house at a bargain price at auction, along with stables,a conservatory, lodge and a 7 acres of grounds. The story is based on the struggle George and his family had to open the zoo due to local opposition, including that of the local reverend. George found to his surprise the local gentry taking an interest and providing support as many of them already kept themselves exotic pets. This is an inspiring story with all the elements needed in a drama to keep the viewer entertained. The acting is superb in it and the sets and costumes take you back to the wonderful era of the 1930s.

Based on a true story, this makes it even better! Beautiful scenery, manor home, and cinematography. Realistic, honest character development. Loved the actors, actresses, and animals. Genuine portrayal of wartime survivors experiencing PTSD. Emotionally congruent, feeling the empathy and compassion for the various animals. Tears happened in quite a few scenes/episodes that authentically portray the resiliency, determination, passion, and purpose experienced throughout the first season. My only real disappointment after watching the first season was that I had hoped there would be more! I'm sure there's endless accounts of the family, zoo, and the story of their lives!