Since they're in theaters simultaneously, The Whale and Dolphin Tale, both focusing on the stories of marine mammals with unusual encounters with human beings, provide audiences with an unusual opportunity to compare the way in which a documentary and a narrative feature tell a similar story. And the actual animals whose stories are being told appear in both films.
The Whale is a documentary about Luna, a baby killer whale who was seperated from his mom and pod, and to satisfy his social needs, befriends the human inhabitants of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. The filmmakers focus on Luna, using verite footage of his behavior and interviews with people who've interacted with him to tell the tale.
Dolphin Tale is a narrative feature based on the true story of Winter, a baby dolphin found beached in Florida and adopted by Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where she was fitted for a prosthetic tail that prolonged her life. Winter's tale is integrated with plot lines involving a lonely boy, single mom and the fiscal problems of the nonprofit aquarium. And the film is ripe with special effects. At one point, Winter, a dophin smile on her face, jumps into the air and, aided by 3D, looks like she's going to land in your lap.
Both films and their stars are engaging. But, for me, The Whale's authenticity makes the film that much more compelling and gives it a much greater emotional impact. See them both, compare them for yourself, and let us know what you think. Meanwhile, read my full review of The Whale.
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