When the Whales Came

Production Notes

“Why the Whales Came” is a children’s story written by Michael Morpurgo and first published in 1985. Set on the island of Bryher, one of the Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall, in the year 1914, the story follows Grace and Daniel, two young children, at the beginning of World War I. Grace and Daniel have been warned to stay away from the mad Birdman- but the message in the sand tells them that the Birdman isn’t what he seems. Then they get lost in the fog and stranded on Samson Island. Should they believe the Birdman’s story that the island is cursed? Following the success of the novel, film rights were quickly sold and actors Paul Scofield, Helen Mirren and David Threlfall. Renamed to “When the Whales Came”, the film had a Royal Performance premiere in October 1989, but it didn’t make a big impression at the box office – or with critics. Rober Ebert wrote in his review: “When the Whales Came is a simpleminded movie by filmmakers who have conspired to make a predictable and morose parable and bang us over the head with it.”

Review ★★☆☆☆

“When the Whales Came” aims at a younger audience with a simply story and beautiful landscapes. That’s just about it. Apart from the children and Paul Scofield, all other characters feel like sideshows. This is especially bad if you have David Suchet and Helen Miren on board (literally). It’s one of those films you can watch without much attention and you won’t miss much, because it’s clear how it’s going to end from the get-go. But, not every film can be an epic journey and I’m sure the people who made “When the Whales Came” didn’t have an epic budget either. Therefore, if you like a small film with a positive message, this one’s recommended.