Cast
View All
Crew
Director
- Keith Scholey
Writer
- David H. Fowler
Producer
- Keith Scholey
- Jane Hamlin
- Alastair Fothergill
- Roy Conli
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Dolphin Reef represents a fascinating example of Documentary/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Keith Scholey brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2018, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dolphin Reef took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 76 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 222 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2018, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dolphin Reef shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Happy Feet, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Dolphin Reef subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Really Haunted Loud House and An Intervention explore similar territory, Dolphin Reef stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 28, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 16m
Where to Watch
