the fresh films reviews

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Flipper (1996)

Director:
Alan Shapiro

COUNTRY
USA

Genre
Drama/Children's

NORWEGIAN TITLE
Flipper

RUNNING TIME
95 minutes

Producer:
James J. McNamara
Perry Katz
Screenwriter:
Alan Shapiro


Cast includes:

CHARACTER ACTOR/ACTRESS RATING
Sandy Ricks Elijah Wood ½
Uncle Porter Paul Hogan
Dirk Moran Jonathan Banks -
Cathy Simms Chelsea Field -
Kim Jessica Wesson -
Sheriff Buck Cowan Isaac Hayes -

 

Review

This reboot of the story about Hollywood's favourite dolphin Flipper obviously tries to capitalize on the success of the Free Willy movies. Unfortunately, as written and directed by Alan Shapiro, this version has little more than cliches and a good heart to offer. The script is just as predictable and unfresh as one might fear going in. The film is notable for being the first teenage-role for Elijah Wood, who has arguably been the most talented child actor of the 1990s so far. He does well, has a few fine moments, and will probably continue to develop into a very good adult actor. As his uncle Porter, Paul 'Crocodile Dundee' Hogan gives a fine performance. The scenes between these two are the film's best asset and save it from flopping. Or flipping?

Copyright © 11.07.1996 Fredrik Gunerius Fevang
(English version: © 31.10.2020 Fredrik Gunerius Fevang)