Dolphin Tale 2 is sure to make a big splash with audiences–the fact that it shows wholesome, smart, thoughtful teens, rather than the f-bombing, sex crazed, post apocalyptical warriors is enough to make it praiseworthy in my book. But, surprisingly enough, there’s more to this film, inspired by real life happenings at Florida’s Clearwater Marine Aquarium, than precocious teens successfully swimming through life.

Oh, the young teens are precocious, running operations in a way that would never be possible, or even legal, in the real world. Cozi Zuehlsdorff as Hazel seems to be a marine biologist, vet and park manager all in one. The true-life volunteers we see during the credits are more appropriately aged upward. But this is not a documentary, it’s a tale. And there’s nothing wrong with young teens being the heroes. By the way, it’s also nice to see adults as allies, rather than villains. Parents played by Ashley Judd, Harry Connick Jr. and Kris Kristofferson are engaged, loving, wise and professional,  and admit to sometimes needing advice as well.

This time around we see Sawyer (Nathan Gamble) as the head trainer of Winter, the dolphin who lost her tale and dons a prosthetic made by Dr. McCarthy (Morgan Freeman). Part of the drama is supplied when Sawyer receives an invaluable offer for a research program that would take him away from Clearwater. Another main plot points involves the death of Winter’s legally required companion dolphin, and efforts to find a replacement. Humor is supplied by the pelican. But of course, the film is about much bigger themes: sacrifice, growing up, letting go, and choosing something that will be best in the long run over something that feels good right now.

Dolphin Tale 2 is probably not a movie that adults unaccompanied by children will make an effort to see, and that’s okay. But if you’re looking for something to enjoy with the younger ones in your life, this is a film’s for you.

Rated PG

107 Minutes

http://youtu.be/ztM-ajPfcfs