utgard14 George C. Scott has taught a pair of dolphins to understand and speak English. But he didn't realize the foundation funding him is actually a covert government agency. Now the agency has taken the two dolphins and plans to use them as assassins. Okay, this all sounds just ridiculous I know but it's actually pretty good. It's directed by Mike Nichols, which is somewhat surprising, as he is not well-known for sci-fi or thrillers. It's written by Buck Henry, who is more known for comedies. Despite stepping out of their respective comfort zones, I think both do a fine job. The cast is good. The story is very interesting. The dolphin scenes are wonderful. Perhaps it's a little giggle-worthy at times but ultimately it's a smart, entertaining film that's pretty unique.

thinker1691 Throughout the motion picture business there is many a thespian who truly believes in their role. Some more than others and is why a few become exceptional. The original script called " The Day of The Dolphin " was delivered to several actors, prior to the film's inception. When the principal actor read the interesting dialog between himself and his subject called Alpha, he was not only intrigued, but anxious to begin. The story centers around a Research Scientist named Dr. Jake Terrell (George C. Scott) and his wife Maggie. (Trish Van Devere) Their secret island project concerns a special Dolphin, whom they have raised since birth. In an amazing feat of Phonetic science, laboring on the cutting edge and years of patience instruction, they have taught their unique Dolphin to speak English. However, their financial benefactors are not men with lofty ideals like Dr. Terrell or his staff. Indeed their primary goal is to use the amazing oceanic mammal to swim underwater undetected to a secured location where the President of the U.S. is vacationing and eliminate the Chief Executive. Although it's Harold DeMilo (Fritz Weaver) the C.E.O. of the funding institute who plans on subverting Dr. Terrell's innovative project, it's a strange, mysterious and uninvited visitor, Curtis Mahoney (Paul Sorvino) whom they suspect is behind the theft of their special Dolphin and a midnight murder. Trust is not inherent between the characters, indeed the audience is in for a surprise or two. However it's this very element which gives the film it's dramatic texture. The cast is incredible and delivers a dynamite performance which as a result allows this film to become a Classic. Excellent movie. ****

ali13kat Don't shy away from this film just because it isn't an action film. It does advance at a very slow pace, and is often overlooked because of this . . . unfairly. This film is truly designed for the animal lover. Anyone who has not shared a profound relationship with an animal will probably have a difficult time relating to this film. It is a slow paced, and beautifully scored experience for a more sophisticated movie lover. George C. Scott delivers his usual, inspiring and powerful performance as the dolphin's trainer. The filming of the dolphin's, alone, makes this film worth watching. Bring along a box of tissues, and don't miss it if you love the art of movie making.

paulabb One of my favorite films that really brings out your emotions especially in the end also accompanied with a great musical score. One of George C. Scott's many great portrayals and just simply beautiful.