Those Years I Opened A Zoo

Synopsis

Those Years I Opened A Zoo, also known by its original title 我开动物园那些年, is a heartwarming Chinese drama series released in 2020. The show follows Su Shangqing, a determined and compassionate individual who embarks on the unique journey of opening and managing a zoo. Throughout the series, viewers witness the challenges and triumphs that come with realizing a dream against all odds. The narrative delves deeply into themes of perseverance, love for animals, and human relationships, blending emotional storytelling with moments of lighthearted humor. With its vivid portrayal of animal welfare issues and the human spirit, the show offers both inspiration and insight into the complexities of running such an unconventional enterprise.

Cast

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  Su Shangqing

  Duan Jiaze (voice)

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  Ajie

  Lu Ya (voice)

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  Li Shimeng

  You Su (voice)

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  Yitong Zhao

  Bai Zhenzhen (voice)

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  Sun Lulu

  Xiao Qing/Huang Qi (voice)

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  Qian Chen

  Su Shu (voice)

Reviews

Critical reception of Those Years I Opened A Zoo has been generally positive, though with some mixed feedback reflecting varied viewer expectations. On IMDb, the series holds a moderate rating around 7.2/10, with users praising its touching narrative and character development. One user commented, “The heartfelt portrayal of Su Shangqing’s dedication makes it a rewarding watch.” Rotten Tomatoes, while not having a formal critic score for this series, reflects an audience appreciation for its fresh take on character-driven drama paired with animal-centric storytelling. However, some critics noted pacing issues, especially in the mid-season episodes, and felt that certain plotlines could have been more deeply explored. Metacritic does not list a score due to limited mainstream critic reviews, but entertainment forums emphasize the show's strengths in casting and emotional appeal. Overall, Those Years I Opened A Zoo is celebrated for its sincere approach and inspirational message, though it might not resonate equally with viewers expecting high-stakes drama or complex plot twists.