Free Willy

Cast: Jason James Richter, Lori Petty, Jayne Atkinson, August Schellenberg, Michael Madsen and Michael Ironside.

Director: Simon Wincer

Release Date: 1993

Running Time: 1hr 52 minutes

Genre: Family

Rating: U

Format: Amazon Prime UK

Synopsis:

When street kid Jesse learns the owners of a sea aquarium want to kill their biggest attraction Willy, Jesse does everything in his power to free the whale back into the wild! 

Street kid Jessie (Ritcher) is out defending for himself, when he learns his mother doesn't want him anymore. On the run from the Police, he finds himself in serious trouble after he was caught vandalising a local aquarium park. Determined to turn his life around, he makes friends with the whale at the park, whilst cleaning it up. Before long the two form a beautiful friendship, however after learning that the owners of the park want to kill Willy. Jesse must do everything in his power to free Willy back into the wild.

Starring child star Jason James Ritcher as Jesse. Ritcher delivers a magnificent performance. The friendship that he forms with killer whale Willy is beautiful and touching. The two of them have more in common, then they both realise. Willy was taken away from his family, stuck into a dolphin tank and forced to perform. Something that has now been brought to the attention of people all around the world, animals in captivity is highly frowned upon. Especially if it just for performing purposes, as apposed to helping to nurture the animal back into the wild. This film is a very strong reminder why animals should not be kept in captivity.

August Schellenberg stars as Jesse's supervisor, the friendship that Jesse forms with him through out the course of the film is excellent. Jesse learns the real art of communication, the bond between animals and humans. Randolf (Schellenberg) believes there is a spiritual bond between orca's and humans. It's a very interesting concept I must say! Michael Ironside is superb as bad guy Dial, owner of the aquarium. A nasty man who is only interested in the dollar coming into his pocket.

Although the storyline isn't up there with "Citizen Kane", it's still remarkably powerful and touching. The relationships between characters are very real and genuine. It may not be award winning cinematography, but doesn't mean to say that the way in which the film was shot was of poor quality. Set beautifully in Astoria Oregon, it really captures the scenery perfectly. The scenery adds to the tone of the film magnificently. The home of Orca's.

A tremendous score by composer Basil Poledouris, a score that really captures the beauty of the film. Heartwarming and emotional. The score speaks volumes about the film, telling the storyline through powerful music. The late Michael Jackson's "Will you be there?" works so well during the end credits.

A real story of friendship, one sure to tug on your heartstrings!

5/5 stars