Parents' Guide to Dolphin Tale

This film is a reminder of why movies that feature non-talking animals are so much more entertaining than the gimmicky comedies centering on talking pets. Winter, who is in fact "played by" Winter, is hard to resist, as are the two adorable up-and-comers who play the lead kids. The friendship between Hazel and Sawyer is refreshingly free of preteen romance or cooties; it's completely focused on their kindred interest in Winter and the other rescued animals. All of the supporting actors are on top form -- broody Connick, who treats audiences to an impromptu sax solo; the always kind and wise Freeman; and Ashley Judd, who plays Sawyer's hardworking single mother. Kris Kristofferson also pops up as Connick's sage, sea-loving father.

Thanks to its sweet young stars, seasoned veterans, and compelling storyline, Dolphin Tale is, in the tradition of The Black Stallion and Secretariat, the sort of animal-themed film that's about the genuine love and friendship that can exist between animals and humans. By the time the credits roll and you see documentary footage of Winter's real crew of rescuers, you'll feel just as genuinely touched by the story of a remarkable dolphin who's a true survivor. Winter's an inspiration to both the able-bodied and people with disabilities, who make pilgrimages to see the dolphin swim with her prosthetic tail.