Island of the Blue Dolphins

We rented this video because my 10 yr old son read the book and loved the story. The only redeeming part of the movie was watching 23 year old Celia Kaye (playing a 15 year old who doesn't age or wear out her clothes over the course of 5 years) in her fake-Indian leather outfit with the slit skirt. Hubba hubba. Wooden acting, stupid ending. The kids liked it. I liked Celia's skirt.

I saw this film once when I was in 6th grade (over 3 years ago) as part of a class project. We were reading the book so my teacher brought this in to watch. Even though it's been 3 years since I've seen it I'm ready to go back and review it. The story is of a young Native American Girl who was abandoned by her tribe (accidently) and left on her island. She befriend wolves and other wildlife as she makes her solitary life on the island for over 18 years until she was discovered. The film and book are both based on the real story of Juana Maria. The film's acting is decent and the story id great so I can recommend it. It's hard to find on DVD but it should still be available somewhere.

This movie had a profound impact on me when I saw it as a child. The strength, resolve, and intelligence, as well as dealing with isolation, was so inspiring. I've drawn on it throughout my life to emulate the same when faced with difficulties. The bonding with the wild dog, unconditional love, devotion and encouragement was a gift from the creator of all life. Highly recommend for young kids.

I remember seeing this movie years ago. It was based on the book, which was a true story. However, it is true that when Europeans came along, they did bring along diseases, and sadly enough murdered innocent natives. Those people tried hard to defend their territory, but were outnumbered. This movie tells the story of a girl who survived after her tribe left the island. It's too sad to think about much more. I would only recommend it if you like true stories about history. Otherwise, all you will see is a lot of people dying, and sad stuff along the way.

Out of the gate, I'd like to start by describing this as an awfully simple "snippet" of someone's life, not so much a story.

But for something from the 60s, it's refreshingly grim situation and cruel developments manage to entertain for its duration. Still, it is dreadful slow in some parts, but still structurally okay. The lead is somewhat charming and her relationships are touchingly cute at times. And while we see her struggle a bit (sanity), I bet the novel provides deeper insight into her thoughts and emotions during this ordeal. Sadly, this movie could have done so much more with the plot!! Also the novel spans 18 years worth of abandonment.. but the film makes time-passage quite ambiguous.

This is probably a "bad" adaptation of the source material.. but an interesting entrypoint to what might be a richer story to those interested.

Personally, I liked what I saw, but would be reluctant to recommend it.