Troop Zero (2019) User Reviews

I was born in SC in 1972. I'm flooded with memories!

[tbyrd-50088 · 8/10 · 18 January 2020]

First of all, Viola Davis could make a documentary about paper bags, and I would watch it. She's an amazing actress. Anyway, the movie is reminiscent of those movies in the 80s, where the story has a little of everything and slowly paced. The movie is cast well, and they all did a good job with the Southern accent. It annoys me greatly when movie makers make the accents an after thought.

The plot is basically a little girl trying to overcome the death of her mom while navigating the cruel waters of middle school. But, she's quirky and doesn't mind putting herself out there to accomplish her goals; becoming a form of Girl Scout in order to live her biggest dream. It's funny, heart warming and outright fun. However, those who didn't grow up in the late 70s, early 80s may not appreciate the movie as much as I did. They paid close attention to the time period and to the South. The setting and wardrobe is spot on. Although, they definitely tone down the racial tension of the time.

It's a cute movie. I would suggest craving out time in your afternoon to watch it.

Sweet, heartwarming and impressively dramatic

[themadmovieman · 7/10 · 20 January 2020]

A quirky tale of kids aiming high in their scouts' troop, Troop Zero isn't the world's most original film, but that doesn't mean it can't be a delightful watch. Sweet and heartwarming with a dash of inspiring drama throughout, this is a really lovely movie that blends engaging characters with upbeat and pleasant emotion.

While it's never quite on the offbeat or surprisingly touching level of the likes of Moonrise Kingdom, Troop Zero is an impressively likable watch that's appropriate for younger viewers, and just as captivating for adults.

It's not an ode to the nostalgia of childhood as you may expect, but it's a film that really engrosses you in the lives of its characters, from its ambitious young misfits to a handful of surprisingly complex adult characters, particularly in the form of Viola Davis.

In that, Troop Zero isn't just a throwaway, Disney-esque kids' movie, but a genuinely engaging comedy-drama, brought to life with both sobering drama and wonderfully heartwarming emotion, not to mention a collection of great performances.

Viola Davis stars in the lead adult role as the woman who seeks to help a group of children achieve their dreams, but is troubled by failures in her own past. Throughout, Davis does a great job of blending a warm, almost motherly quality with genuine gravitas, and while the film's main focus is squarely on the fates of the children, she proves an enthralling supporting lead throughout.

But the real standout here is young Mckenna Grace, who is an absolute joy as Christmas Flint, the young misfit with dreams of speaking to aliens and travelling to outer space. Not only is she utterly adorable throughout, but also holds her own against legendary actors like Viola Davis in the film's more dramatic moments, impressing with engrossing emotional resonance alongside her boundless lovability.

Add all that together, and Troop Zero is an effortlessly likable film, with pleasant humour and engaging drama across the board. It's not a purely easy-going watch, and impresses with engaging and complex emotion at times throughout.

However, it's a wonderfully sweet, kind-hearted and uplifting tale of big dreams and doing what you love. It may not be the touchingly nostalgic tale to childhood it perhaps could have been, but with charisma, laughs and a big heart all the way through, it's a film that will easily put a big smile on your face.

Great movie

[beaches-03484 · 8/10 · 26 January 2020]

Great movie. Makes you feel things and think about life and how you treat people. Simple movie and set. Great cast too.

A bit underwhelming

[julysidney · 6/10 · 20 January 2020]

The trailer for this movie made it seem like it would be cute and funny and maybe even a bit inspirational. If nothing else enjoyable. But right off the bat I had trouble diving into the story because the wigs on Christmas and Boss were distractingly bad. Additionally the dialogue felt weird- not natural at times and didn't always flow with the emotions of the scene. There was a point halfway through the movie that I thought maybe I would enjoy the story better if I just read the script instead. Somehow it felt like the music and the cinematography and the dialogue would be mismatched at times and if you just isolated one from the others then it might be better. The actors all did a good job, really outselling their characters. The problem is they didn't have much to work with as far as dialogue. It almost felt like a waste of talent. The movie wasn't bad it just wasn't good. It didn't make me feel anything and I probably wouldn't watch it again if I had a choice. It's just okay.

Davis, Janney, & Grace make Troop Zero a great family watch!

[Nolg101 · 7/10 · 6 February 2020]

Troop Zero is a well-made family drama/comedy released on January 17, 2020 by Amazon Studios. It was released by Big Indie Pictures, Escape Artists, and Amazon. The screenplay was written by Lucy Alibar, known for Beasts of the Southern Wild, and directed by the duo of Bert & Bertie, who most recently co-directed, Dance Camp (2016).

It stars Mckenna Grace, as Christmas Flint, a social misfit with her head in the clouds. Jim Gaffigan plays the role of her father, Ramsey Flint, a local attorney, who like his daughter is also a peculiar character that often accepts payment from his clients in the form of "I-owe-you's". Viola Davis plays, Miss Rayleen, Ramsey's paralegal assistant who oftentimes acts in a motherly role to Christmas. Allison Janney is Miss Massey, a troop leader for a local troop of Birdie Scouts that has a history with Miss Rayleen. Mike Epps rounds out the cast as, Dwayne Champaign, a friend/client of Ramses, who brings humor and lightness to the role.

Troop Zero is set in rural Georgia in 1977 and Laura Fox, who designed the production of the film really did a wonderful job of teleporting the audience back to this period with colorful and rich sets filled with nostalgic items that have today become memorabilia and picturesque settings backdropped against the tall Georgia pines and Southern Live Oaks that the area is famous for. The rural south American setting adds another element to the film that doesn't really percolate to the point of becoming a pseudo-character in the movie, but I felt like the events probably couldn't happen in too many other places.

Grace's character, Christmas, is the sort of character that many love rooting for because she's a likable underdog with a bright smile and a quirky personality, and it's through this that the film's directors are able to string along a touching coming-of-age story that offers many solid supporting performances. Notably, all of the child actors perform exceptionally, either as supporting Birdie Scouts or rival scouts in the climactic competition to see who will be recorded on NASA's Golden Record.

Troop Zero is definitely worth a watch, it'll remind you of the power of imagination, self-belief, perseverance, sacrifice, family, friendship and love.

Mckenna Grace Shines in well Cast offbeat touching but fun Film!

[gettysburgrich · 9/10 · 19 January 2020]

I did not think I would love this movie. I watched it because I loved the peformance of Mckenna Grace in the movie Gifted. I enjoy trying to follow young actors that I think will grow into stardom. Grace in these two roles looks like she is on target for that type of career. The movie will remind you of a Wes Anderson or Watitie film two great directors.I was afraid the movie was taking the turn of being PC correct in every aspect of its characters. But it does so without shoving it in your face, Davis is powerful in her troop leader role as is the whole cast. I was teary eyed a few times in this touching depiction of a young girl full of Hope surrounded by nothing in her world that called for it. So she reached beyond and found other misfits like herself and it makes for a fine film. If you like Grace here check out Gifted. Rich

Light hearted movie, interesting ending

[getbacks · 7/10 · 22 February 2020]

Has a bit of a message primarily of classes of people, being poor or just being different. Viola Davis of course is solid so is Jim Gaffigan and Allison Janney. Mckenna Grace is a fine little actress Milan Ray was excellent, she has a future At times the script struggled but the ending makes up for it

Glowing array of wonderful

[UniqueParticle · 9/10 · 21 July 2020]

Troop Zero is so colorful and delightful all around! Packed with a great soundtrack, inspirational story, endearing characters, and dialogue that is well written throughout. I don't know why I didn't see sooner it's just my type of charm in cinema. Jim Gaffigan, Viola Davis and McKenna Grace are excellent! Lovely indie about camp, space, and other feel-good vibes mixed with only a little bit of drama would recommend to anyone.

Pretty Good!

[amgee-89551 · 6/10 · 17 January 2020]

6/10 Funny and sweet Movie! I really Enjoyed it! Great Acting by all the cast!

Cute in places, but...

[stefani276 · 5/10 · 18 January 2020]

I kept waiting for it to take off, but it didn't, for me. Cast is marvelous, premise is one we know, but it was flat.

First, the attempts at Southern accents were awful. Could be that since I'm a Southerner and used to the real thing, it's so glaring when someone isn't the real deal. But, I got used to it.

The characters were delightful, mostly. There's not much to spoil the interaction between Viola Davis and Allison Janney, both wonderful together. McKenna was a lovely, sensitive addition, as were all the kids in Troop 0. Goodness, they tried, I'm a woman of a certain age who was a late teen in the time period represented. I remember small towns like that, the Scout troops, camping, Jamborees...indeed, life in a sleepy Southern town. Most poignant for me was watching Christmas at the library, checking out books. I did the very same thing; and 5 was my limit also. I felt for her...that limit is just not fair for curious girls, is it, Christmas?

I understand the principle and lesson behind it, but the 'Spartacus' style ending was a bit much for me. And couldn't they have picked another shared activity of some sort for bonding other than the one they did? I remember in Little Miss Sunshine when the Rick James music started, saying, Oh, No! and watching that scene unfold. Yes, it was a shock, but you laughed with them. This time it was Oh No, and then having dismay settle in as the scene unfolded. In neither did they win in the traditional sense, but you knew they wouldn't. I was disappointed in how it was handled.

It's a movie you can safely take the family to, but please know few Southerners are as represented. I'm dismayed that one more time, we're represented as trailer living hillbillies. These had dreams and gumption, but still.

Wasn't for me, but clearly others loved it.

Absolutely wonderful!

[josiepelch · 10/10 · 26 January 2020]

My husband and I absolutely loved this from the very beginning. The girls are cute, the story is great and even the interactions were fun. I think most of the negative reviews were people that didn't grow up in the 70's and didn't ever experience being teased or left out of the group. I totally related to this film and loved the s#$&* out of it!

Fun, adorably cute movie that everyone can enjoy.

[reddiemurf81 · 7/10 · 29 March 2020]

Where do I start? The cast is spot on perfect. Viola Davis,, well,, has she ever had a bad performance? Same goes for Allison Janney. Jim Gaffigan rounds out the main adult cast in his humorous, offbeat best. The kids, oh my. McKenna Grace is just too good. Can't help but fall in love with her character. Add to that a rag tag bunch of misfits, and they light up the screen together. Get the fam and/or friends in the living room and watch it!!

I really, really wanted to like this one.

[thehaaps · 5/10 · 7 April 2020]

This movie had so much potential.

Visually, it's stunning. Kudos to the DP.

For me, the movie just dragged. And dragged. Very underwhelming, payoff. I wanted to have "Forrest Gump" moments so many times...the acting was superb... I just wasn't ultimately connected and couldn't cry when I wanted to because I was not invested. Something was always pulling me out... pacing?

The "pee" scene on the stage was more repulsive than heartwarming. I really, really wanted to like this one.

Close but no cigar

[gatorgus48 · 7/10 · 20 March 2020]

Mostly heartwarming and satisfying. But, southern accents were painful for a southerner to listen to.

And some of the scenes were simply not believable.

Ending made me smile however.

Overall, enjoyable. But, with better editing and a few scenes rewritten it could have been a great film.

Maybe tweens and younger may overlook the flaws and really enjoy it.

Simple, Fun, Feel-Good Movie

[elainapapaya · 7/10 · 19 January 2020]

Troop Zero is a feel-good movie. It's quick, forgettable, and fluffy, but you'll end up with a smile on your face. The soundtrack was an unexpected bonus. The child actors were all amazing; their performances were quite astounding.

The plot was creative, if a bit unrealistic. Yes, the golden record did exist, but the idea of a girl scout-esque troop competition to get on it seems too small for such a big world event. Christmas, however, manages to make the audience see the world through a child's eyes. This movie feels more like a character piece rather than a plot driven-film.

The main issue I see is how over-the-top and cliche each of the troop members were. For the most part, the film feels extremely realistic, but the trope-y misfits kind of pull the watcher out of the illusion. The other problem was the number of loose ends. In trying to give each character a motive, we receive bits of backstory which are never addressed again. Almost none of the characters change at all throughout the film.

Troop Zero is by no means a perfect film, but the energy and excitement, along with the '77 Georgia setting, will put you in a good mood.

Language spoken: Metaphor

[walkinginv · 9/10 · 24 January 2020]

A beautiful funny emotionally driven metaphorically speaking movie. It's an intelligent story that is entertaining to all ages. If you have expectations of something else, maybe you chose the wrong movie. This is delightful. If you're offended, again you may have wanted a different movie. This is a thoughtful story.

ground control to major cheese

[donaldricco · 6/10 · 20 January 2020]

Overall, I didn't really enjoy this movie, by which I mean the overall plot and most of the acting. Viola Davis, however, was excellent. And the scene of Troop 0 at the jamboree, well, that just stole my heart, and is the reason for the three stars. I dang near cried during that part. And honestly, that may be the reason to see this movie. Starting to get weepy just thinking about it...

Troop zero

[jerusaleng · 10/10 · 17 January 2020]

Fantastic movie.. it has a wonderful message of encouragement, friendship and love. Is definitely a feel good film in a unexpected way....

Kids movie for motivational...

[kamalbeeee · 7/10 · 20 July 2020]

5 group of kids trying to participate a play which is select voice for NASA project. all kids have unique talent and funny character... The movie can watch with family especially for kids..

Wanted to like it

[awt-70403 · 4/10 · 25 June 2020]

I wanted to like this movie, but it didn't go anywhere. Christmas Flint was well played. Really likeable, cute kid. All the other child actors did standard child actor acting. There were a few scenes where I found myself thinking, "Really? That's the take they decided to use?". Also, I feel bad for the actress casted for the role of Smash. It seems her character was based on being the dumb, pudgy kid who breaks things and farts and doesn't serve a purpose but comedic relief.

One thing that really took me out of it, was how accepting everyone in that sleepy little southern town in the late 70's was of an effeminate little boy and little black girls. No one was mean or nasty or had anything to say. Don't get me wrong, I wish that's how it had been (and how it were now), but that's simply not the case. If anything, this movie would have been a great way to showcase that kids get along with each other regardless of differences and that it's adults who get lost along the way. But alas. It seems like the writers just wanted to use the aesthetics of a small town in the late 70's and the southern accent as gimmicks in their telling of an extremely milquetoast retelling of a story we've all heard a thousand times before.

Must see for everyone during this tumultuous time.

[tbonet4 · 10/10 · 26 June 2020]

Just finished watching Troop Zero- Everyone on the globe should be made to watch it- If a kid wants to be an astronaut, a hair dresser, or a lawyer, they should have their chance to dream, and their chance to try- Every kid wants to be accepted for who they are, and they should be, without bullying, and with friends who get them, and less than perfect parents and role models who love them like crazy- The credits are a must see and hear, where children of every nation, and in every language say "Hello, from the children of planet Earth" to anyone "out there" who might be listening 👽

Archetypal Misfits

[jgarner-21383 · 7/10 · 18 January 2020]

Cute show, with an impressive cast! Love Janney's and Davis' characters, but those young actors steal the show. Gaffigan is goofy and loveable as always!

So warming it burns

[Naive-fox · 4/10 · 26 February 2020]

Christmas Flint might be the weirdest, oddest, cutest little thing in cinema history. Backed by the strong performance from Mckenna Grace -can this kid do anything wrong?- it is near impossible not to fall for this little girl and share all her dreams, her hopes and her heartbreaks. Unfortunately for Mckenna -and the rest of the cast, who all do a magnificent job- 'Troop Zero' fails as a movie by going over every cliche one hopes to find in indie coming of age flicks and taking every on of them over the top and beyond.

There's a lot to be taken from 'Troop Zero'. Every life lesson worth learning for children and not-so-children is portrayed in ninety minutes of footage. It's heartwarming, it's educational and it's emotional. And above it all, it's overly dramatic, to the point where even if you appreciate the intention of the director and sympathize with the characters involved, you still cringe on the sofa and wait for it to be over, hoping the next scene won't try so hard to pull all the strings it would still pull -and more effectively- if it was toned down to a more realistic and enjoyable level.

With a solid directing, some near perfect scenes, a fantastic performance from the whole cast -even the younger ones- and a magnificent sound track -it's Bowie, what more is there to say?- I can only wonder what this movie could have been had it not wasted so much effort in becoming the stereotypical Sundance movie.

a wonderful movie

[ops-52535 · 7/10 · 2 May 2020]

In all respects, a heartwarming cuddle of hope anbd sincereness, and a heartful teardripping salute to life, dead or alive.

to be hypercritical there are some overacting among a few of the kids, that may lower the credibility of it all, so as the grumpy old man i'm ive to tell you that. but also say ''dont miss this one'' because its so full of effort on a pretty low budget so its a high recommended family , old cubs or birdies jamboree seekers comedy drama.

A Great Lesson about acceptance that seems to be lost more with each narcissistic generation sadly. :(

[midnitepantera · 7/10 · 25 July 2021]

Really cute movie, about being the outcast and fighting for your dreams despite what all the uppity, rude snobs say and do to derail you. Loved Viola Davis, Allison Janney, and Jim Gaffagan. All wonderful, colorful characters. McKenna Grace is just EVERYWHERE and I think she will be around for a long, long time. Really versatile little actress and this movie transported me back to the 70's and my childhood. Nice to see kids playing outside instead of glued to an Xbox and juvenile diabetes, posting horrible things about other kids online for the world to see. There were always mean and cruel kids, that made your life miserable at times, but at least you could move on after a few days or weeks. I don't envy the tech generation of kids that spawned from the mid 90's and forward. They should be jealous of the real childhoods of the past, and if they knew the feeling of TRUE FRIENDSHIP we got to have, they would mourn their lost childhoods. Worth a watch ;D.