Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Amiable eco-tale is wholesome but lackluster.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Bernie the Dolphin
What's the Story?
Growing up in St. Augustine, Florida, siblings Kevin (Logan Allen) and Holly (Lola Sultan, whose spark radiates through every line) Ryan are always on the water and frequently see a mini-pod of dolphins. When Holly is in a boating accident, she's rescued by the dolphin the pair had named Bernie. When "Bernie" disappears, the siblings conduct a search for their missing friend. In the meantime, they stumble upon a real estate scheme to develop a nearby island and thus damage the ecosystem. Kevin and Holly must find a way to stop the real estate development, protect the sea animals' habitat, and save BERNIE THE DOLPHIN.
Is It Any Good?
In so many ways, this movie is a parent's dream; its just too bad the script and filmmaking aren't more engaging. Bernie the Dolphin features aspirational, smart kids in a loving family that operates with a teamwork philosophy. The children use their unique passions and talents to uncover a suspicious real estate scheme, and their judgment only goes awry when they interpret parental guideposts the wrong way. The dialogue is simple and straightforward, which can be helpful in a film made for children. Other than one word so minor it seems that perhaps the filmmakers didn't realize it could be considered a no-no ("crap"), there's really no iffy content -- and young viewers will probably learn a couple of things and may even take a deeper interest in protecting oceans and marine life.
But unfortunately the story isn't particularly creative, and the movie lacks the pizzazz of modern-day filmmaking. In fact, the scenes most likely to capture children's attention are when Kevin and Holly break the law. Although the title suggests that the movie is about the dolphin, it's really about the family; too much time is spent on the Ryan parents dealing with their issues rather than showing viewers cool dolphin tricks or the kids interacting with Bernie (who's a real charmer; he'll steal hearts). Despite every good intention this movie has, there's a good chance parents will hear those two dreaded words: "I'm bored."
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the family dynamics in Bernie the Dolphin. The father is a former athlete who encourages teamwork in his family and in his career. How do the kids demonstrate teamwork? How do the parents represent this?
Kevin and Holly decide that the only way to do the right thing is to do something they know is wrong: Where do you see the line of integrity being drawn? How does their dad unknowingly compromise his integrity? Was there a way he could have prevented it?
How do Kevin and Holly demonstrate perseverance? How does their determination eventually impact their community?
Before seeing the movie, did you know a dolphin could get sunburned? What else will you take away from the film?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 7, 2018
- On DVD or streaming : February 5, 2019
- Cast : Kevin Sorbo , Lola Sultan , Patrick Muldoon
- Director : Kirk Harris
- Studio : Grindstone Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Animals ( Ocean Creatures ) , STEM
- Run time : 92 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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