Story
Dolphin Tale 2 continues the story of Winter, a young rescued dolphin who, with the aid of Dr Cameron McCarthy (Morgan Freeman), had a prosthetic tail attached after an injury left her fighting for her life. Winter’s companion dolphin at the aquarium now dies, leaving Winter entirely alone and isolated. In addition to the emotional trauma of this loss, the aquarium team have another problem to deal with. US regulations dictate that dolphins cannot be kept in captivity alone, and they are required to be paired with other animals of the same species due to their social nature.
The film follows the journey of the compassionate and determined Clearwater team in finding a companion for Winter to ensure she can stay at the marine resort. After a long fight, as Dr McCarthy redesigns multiple new, more realistic tails for Winter, a suitable partner who does not act aggressively toward Winter is found. As a result, the Clearwater team is able to keep Winter in captivity and maintain their friendship with a creature they have fought so hard to protect.
Themes
Relationships and friendship; loss and death; marine life; conflict
Violence
There is limited violence in this movie including:
- After losing her companion, Winter becomes highly antisocial and even slightly violent towards other dolphins placed in captivity with her, as well as towards people (injuring Sawyer at one point).
- There is a discussion about Bethany, a professional surfer, losing her arm in a shark attack.
Sexual references
There is mild flirtatious behaviour seen between Sawyer and Hazel.
Alcohol, drugs and other substances
Nothing of concern
Nudity and sexual activity
Nothing of concern
Product placement
None of concern
Coarse language
None of concern
Ideas to discuss with your children
Dolphin Tale 2 is a heart-warming story about relationships, love, and triumph over obstacles. The film highlights the strength of relationships not only between humans, but also between different species of animals. It also shows the strength of the human spirit, the importance of persistence, and the determination of individuals when it comes to protecting and fighting for those that they love. The film additionally highlights the importance of not overlooking the strengths of people with disabilities, and the triumph of compassion and co-operation over individual disability.
Some scenes may be upsetting for under 8s, so the film is best suited to children 8 and over.
Parents may wish to discuss what the film shows us about:
- The effects of keeping wild animals in captivity.
- The issues involved in the rescue of animals.
- Human disability, and how that may affect quality of life and interpersonal relationships.