Free Willy Movie Review 1993

Sentimental story about a 12-year-old runaway (Richter) who befriends a whale. Should appeal to children for its heartwarming story and delightful sea acrobatics. An electronically operated stand-in whale was used for far-off shots; a domesticated performing whale named Keiko for the close-ups. Director Wincer was known to grumble about the temperamental Keiko during shooting. Suggested viewing for students of animal behavior. Proof that family films can make money, "Free Willy" placed tenth for total boxoffice receipts in 1993.

Distribution

Baker & Taylor Inc., 2709 Water Ridge Pkwy., Ste. 500, Charlotte, NC 28217, Phone: (704)357-3500, Toll-free: 800-775-1800, Email: btinfo@btol.com, URL: http://www.btol.com

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 112 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Adventure Drama, Buddies, Adoption & Orphans, Rescue Missions, Go Fish, Deep Blue, Whales, Top Grossing Films of 1993

Screenplay

Keith A. Walker, Corey Blechman

Cast

Jason James Richter, Lori Petty, Jayne Atkinson, August Schellenberg, Michael Madsen

Cinematography

Robbie Greenberg

Director

Simon Wincer

Music

Basil Poledouris

Producer

Lauren Shuler-Donner, Jennie Lew Tugend, Penelope L. Foster, Richard Soloman, Jim Van Wyck, Richard Donner, Arnon Milchan, Le Studio Canal, Regency Enterprises, Alcor Films

Awards

MTV Movie Awards 1994: Song ("Will You Be There").