The story line is different from other dolphin films. I didn't know where the story was going or what was going to happen next. Although there are many characters involved in the story, the storyline is easy to follow.
The cinematography is beautiful and skillfully executed. All the drone shots and camera angles display the beauty of the island. The costumes fit the story line and have a specific function, mainly to distinguish people based on their financial situations. When Anna's grandparents come over to visit, they stand out because they are dressed formally all the time. Meanwhile, the residents of the island are dressed in casual beach wear. The sets and locations look realistic and have a lot of depth. At one point, people are searching the entire island to find Anna, and the island's buildings are very detailed. Nothing looks bare or made of low quality. I also love how colorful all the buildings are. The music definitely helps set the different moods throughout the film, but it's not particularly noteworthy. The color grading makes all of the different buildings pop and the ocean and sunsets look absolutely stunning on screen. Peter Woodward, who plays Anna's grandfather, stands out to me the most. His appearance fits his character and he has two sides to him. He is a caring grandfather, but at the same time can get violent and overprotective when need be. I love the part where the dolphin, Mitsky, brings a boy's hat to Anna. It is really cute how Mitsky is being a wing-woman to Anna.
The message of this film is that money alone isn't what makes someone happy. Family, friends and experiences are the things that makes someone happy and that is what success really means. Be aware that there are some instances of kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. There are some fights where punches are thrown and, at one point, Anna attempts to run away on a boat which is very dangerous.
I give Dolphin Island 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 18, plus adults. It is definitely family friendly and highlights the importance of family. Anna sets a good example of a child who is caring and loving. Reviewed by Jolleen M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic
The story line is different from other dolphin films. I didn't know where the story was going or what was going to happen next. Although there are many characters involved in the story, the storyline is easy to follow.
The cinematography is beautiful and skillfully executed. All the drone shots and camera angles display the beauty of the island. The costumes fit the story line and have a specific function, mainly to distinguish people based on their financial situations. When Anna's grandparents come over to visit, they stand out because they are dressed formally all the time. Meanwhile, the residents of the island are dressed in casual beach wear. The sets and locations look realistic and have a lot of depth. At one point, people are searching the entire island to find Anna, and the island's buildings are very detailed. Nothing looks bare or made of low quality. I also love how colorful all the buildings are. The music definitely helps set the different moods throughout the film, but it's not particularly noteworthy. The color grading makes all of the different buildings pop and the ocean and sunsets look absolutely stunning on screen. Peter Woodward, who plays Anna's grandfather, stands out to me the most. His appearance fits his character and he has two sides to him. He is a caring grandfather, but at the same time can get violent and overprotective when need be. I love the part where the dolphin, Mitsky, brings a boy's hat to Anna. It is really cute how Mitsky is being a wing-woman to Anna.
The message of this film is that money alone isn't what makes someone happy. Family, friends and experiences are the things that makes someone happy and that is what success really means. Be aware that there are some instances of kids doing risky things that kids might imitate. There are some fights where punches are thrown and, at one point, Anna attempts to run away on a boat which is very dangerous.
I give Dolphin Island 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 18, plus adults. It is definitely family friendly and highlights the importance of family. Anna sets a good example of a child who is caring and loving. Reviewed by Jolleen M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic
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