Troop Zero

Troop Zero is an endearing coming-of-age drama-comedy movie that was released in 2019. Directed by the talented Bert & Bertie, the film includes a remarkable line-up of stars such as the gifted child actress Mckenna Grace, Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis, and versatile comedian Jim Gaffigan. The movie is packed with feel-good moments and is a sincere ode to thinking differently, acceptance, and embracing your own uniqueness.

Set in the mid-1970s in the rustic town of Wiggly, Georgia, the story revolves around the quirky and imaginative nine-year-old girl, Christmas Flint, played by Mckenna Grace. Christmas is an enthusiast of outer space and solemnly believes in the existence of life beyond earth. The sudden demise of her beloved mom leaves her with fragmented dreams of communicating with extraterrestrials.

One fine day, an opportunity presents itself. NASA holds a competition where the reward is to get the winner’s voice recorded on the Voyager Golden Record that will be sent into space, thereby enthusing Christmas. Determined to seize this chance to make contact with the otherworldly, Christmas hatches a plan and takes the resolution to form her unique Girl Scout troop. But Christmas being the oddball that she is, does not fit into the typical, picture-perfect girl scout troop of her school.

Undeterred, Christmas rallies a group of other misfits, including her bully turned friend Hell-No, the one-eyed evangelist, Anne-Claire, and the juvenile delinquent, Smash. Each of these characters has their unique traits and insecurities which are beautifully woven into the narrative to reflect the true essence of friendship and the significance of being yourself.

In comes Viola Davis as Rayleen, a strong yet sensitive character who works for Christmas’s Father, played by Jim Gaffigan. Davis, with her trademark intensity, plays the unwilling troop leader to these non-conformists. The ragtag troop known as Troop Zero sets out on a mission against the high and mighty Troop Five, led by a perfectionist and their long-standing nemesis.

Amid laughter and heartfelt moments, the film explores themes of hopes, dreams, and the pursuit of improbable goals. The movie beautifully dives into the intricacies of childhood relationships, friendships, father-daughter love, and individual growth, told from the perspective of these eccentric characters.

David and Nathan Zellner, renowned for their distinct storytelling style, have penned down the screenplay. The film, inspired by Alibar's 2010 play, Christmas and Jubilee Behold The Meteor Shower, retains its soulful narrative in Zellner Brothers' interpretation too. Each of the sci-fi and real-life elements is seamlessly intertwined together, giving rise to an inspiring, fun, adventurous journey that appeals to both kids and their families, alike.

Troop Zero portrays that even though the dreams are set in infinity, it is the journey that counts and forms the crux of the film. The continuance of life, the venture of surviving childhood, the toil of understanding one's unique self, and realizing that winning isn’t everything are portrayed through the characters as they struggle, evolve and triumph over their apprehensions, emerging as the real heroes.

The unlikeliest friendships, the unlikely heroes, and the unlikely setting offer viewers an engaging, cinematic experience. The outstanding performances of the young Mckenna Grace alongside experienced actors like Viola Davis and Jim Gaffigan enhances the narrative with just the right balance of emotion and humor.

The film is further backed by a notable eclectic soundtrack that perfectly complements its 70s backdrop, creating a sense of nostalgia. The picturesque cinematography of the Southern towns is also noteworthy for capturing the essence of the period and the innocent charm of childhood dreams.

Troop Zero, with its touching narrative, stellar performances, and unique story premise, has the ability to resonate with audiences of all racial, social, and age groups. It's an uplifting tale that encourages you to reach for the stars, despite the judgment and disbelief of others. This film truly manages to make its mark by brilliantly illustrating the everyday chaos, heartache, and wonders of growing up. It symbolizes the power of friendship, determination, and most of all hope which is indeed the essence of life.