RELEASED IN 2010 and directed by Michael D. Sellers, "Beneath the Blue" chronicles events in the Bahamas when dolphin researchers clash with the US Navy over the latter's sonar program, which is killing dolphins. Caitlin Wachs plays the main protagonist, Alyssa, daughter of the dolphin expert (David Keith) while Samantha Jade & Leah Eneas appear as her besties. Paul Wesley plays Alyssa's mysterious beau and Ivana Milicevic his sister. Michael Ironside is also on hand as a Naval captain.
This is a stand-alone sequel to 2006' "Eye of the Dolphin" with Caitlin Wachs overtaking the role of Alyssa, which was previously played by Carly Schroeder. Caitlin is superior IMHO; she's just all-around beautiful, inside & out. The only two returning from "Eye" are the peripheral characters played by George Harris and Christine Adams.
In any case, this is a solid marine/island drama/adventure. It's similar to "Into the Blue" (2005) and "Into the Blue 2" (2009), but less of a thriller and more family-oriented; not to mention the focus being on dolphins. Don't get me wrong, there are some thrills and even a crime element, but "Beneath the Blue" is decidedly mild by comparison, with a heartwarming cast of protagonists and a perceptible reverent ambiance. While this wasn't a major release it's not exactly a cheapo flick either with its $2.5 million price tag.
Australian musician and co-star Samantha Jade performs the song that plays over the end credits, "Whatever I Can."
THE MOVIE RUNS 92 minutes and was shot in the Bahamas (Grand Bahama Island) and Santa Catalina Island, CA. WRITER: Wendell Morris.
GRADE: B
