DOLPHIN TALE Movie Review

Why do we all love movies that are inspired by a true story?! I think because the word "inspired by" is part of it and they often are very inspirational.  DOLPHIN TALE is no exception to this successful formula. I have to admit I always thought this was a Disney movie and it was really positioned exactly as it delivered - family friendly and adorable! However, the accoloades belong to Warner Brothers who made this PG rated film which feels as wholesome as a G. I don't remember the last time I saw a PG film and it was refreshing to see an engaging and entertaining film that had no violence, major conflict, or negativity.

I had meant to see DOLPHIN TALE 3D in theatres and while many did ($72 Million in Box Office!) it still looked amazing on Blu-Ray. The film lives up to its hype as a heartwarming movie. All of the characters are sweet and lovable especially Dr. Clay (Harry Connick Jr.), Lorraine (Ashley Judd), Dr. Cameron (Morgan Freeman), Sawyer and Hazel. I was pleasantly surprised to discover new acting talent in Cozi Zuehlsdorff who played Hazel. She is an actress to watch as she was captivating and pulled you into the story. 

However, most of the movie is focused around Sawyer (Nathan Gamble) the little boy who seemed lost and disinterested in life until he meets Winter the dolphin. It was touching to watch this youngster transform as he found something to be passionate about. He quickly steps into service and out of his protective shell as the events around Winter's rescue unfold. With the help of his new friend Hazel, he begins to change the lives of everyone he meets, especially his beloved dolphin. This young team becomes a powerful force as they fight for everything they believe in and never give up. The friendships that are developed and the change that is created in their community is both moving and beautiful to witness.  It helps to remind us that no matter what age, we can make a difference.

Winter the dolphin is truly the biggest inspiration in the film. This powerful little dolphin also never quits despite all of the odds against her. She also shows her human companions how to see things differently. Winter is the only dolphin to ever survive and live without a tail and luckily humans took a chance with her or we wouldn't have this inspirational tale to tell. Winter could be considered a "service animal: as she demonstrates to the disabled that living with a prosthetic can be a life of acceptance and joy. She serves as a living testimony to the power to overcome adversity and a sign of hope for many.

As Morgan Freeman says in the movie to a recently disabled war veteran, "you aren't broken".  Many times we may think we are broken and don't have the will to live and yet if this dolphin can not only survive but thrive, I believe we all can.  The message is to find a reason to live and never give up.  Having gone through a dear friend losing his hand, I have been an intimate witness to some of the devastation and yet powerful recovery that can transform a man intro a stronger living inspiration.  I have found that the inner work and willingness to serve can get us through pretty much anything.  I love that this dolphin has worked with many who have lost limbs. There is something innately healing about animals if we just allow them to be and to teach.


I have loved dolphins my whole life and just seeing one in the ocean lights me up.  I have been lucky enough to swim with them (see photo) which was one of the top five moments of my life and #1 on my bucket list.  I highly recommend researching a place before you swim with them to make sure their involvement with dolphins is both loving and safe for these creatures. The experience is truly magical and if you get the chance to meet them in the wild take a moment to marvel at their magnificence.  You can also visit Winter in Flordia.

The film ends with some of the real footage from Winter's rescue and I realized this film was so much powerful and prosperous than any documentary about Winter's life could have been.  While I'm a huge fan of documentaries, it's true that a live-action film like this one with an amazing cast can reach more people and make more money than any documentary ever could and yet the message and story is the same!  We need to find ways to make our entertainment enjoyable to watch and yet deliver the power of transformation and inspiration.

Synergy TV has this mission and intention so be ready to see great things from us.  If you are ever feeling down, just rent or buy DOLPHIN TALE and you will feel lifted up to place of gratitude for all that you do have and for the powerful change-agents in your life!

Entertain, Enlighten, Inspire,
Kate Neligan
Founder/CEO of Synergy TV & Mindful Media Entertainment