64
Metascore
31 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 83Tampa Bay TimesSteve PersallTampa Bay TimesSteve PersallDirector Charles Martin Smith presents the kind of movie that gives squeaky-clean a good name.
- 70The Hollywood ReporterTodd McCarthyThe Hollywood ReporterTodd McCarthyThis true story of a dolphin with a prosthetic tail has been precision engineered for full inspirational, heart-warming value.
- 70Village VoiceVillage VoiceBy the end of the movie, Winter has become a mascot for human disability, especially for children, and Dolphin Tale has enough depth and sensitivity to tap into emotion without feeling manipulative.
- 67Entertainment WeeklyEntertainment WeeklyWhile the plot occasionally feels like "Free Willy" without the drama, it's a cute story if you don't mind temporarily trading in your cynicism for a bag of popcorn.
- 63Slant MagazineNick SchagerSlant MagazineNick SchagerIf its plotting can be slight, the film's restraint and earnestness help prevent it from ever tipping over into outright mawkishness, and its performances similarly avoid over-the-top histrionics.
- 63Orlando SentinelRoger MooreOrlando SentinelRoger MooreNo, this isn't how it really happened. But director Charles Martin Smith ("Air Bud") wrings plenty of heartfelt tears and a few laughs out of this fictionalized account.
- 60Boxoffice MagazinePete HammondBoxoffice MagazinePete HammondCall it Prosthetic Flipper, but the truly inspiring Dolphin Tale is perfect family entertainment.