Two intertwining stories. The first, two kids, Holly (Lola Sultan) and Kevin (Logan Allen) live and explore around the Florida coast. Holly has a fascination with animals, Kevin is a devoted amateur filmmaker. It is their combined passions that lead them to Bernie, a sunburned dolphin separated from his family. Filled with integrity and eagerness, they seek to bring Bernie back to his home waters.

Meanwhile, their father Bob (Patrick Muldoon) makes advances in his real estate profession. He is connected with Winston Mills (Kevin Sorbo), who plans to take away the beach where the kids found Bernie. Bob is challenged between his family and his profession on just what to do.

Bernie the Dolphin makes a case for more complex storytelling in the realm of children’s movies. It divides between two stories and asks tricky questions. Mills threatens the kids with their dad’s job, and the kids are tasked with tricky objectives. For younger viewers, perhaps 12 and under, this makes for exciting and pleasing filmmaking. Dove awards the film with approval for All Ages.

The Dove Take

This film shows a lot of heart, especially in the way it makes us feel about saving Bernie. There certainly is a good deal of empathy towards wildlife, and seeing young characters like this take action is inspiring. Further, seeing positive choices, like families standing together and believing in one another, should prove noble for young audiences.