BERNIE THE DOLPHIN
MAKES A SPL ASH AT MARINEL AND
by Danielle Anderson
I
It’s been a while since filmmakers have seen Flagler and St. Johns counties as a place to create
silver screen magic, but Marineland Dolphin Adventure is helping to put the first coast back on
the map with a little help from some of the attraction’s biggest stars. Filming for Bernie the
Dolphin took place in early 2018 with a wonderful story about family, saving the dolphins, and conservation,
opening with a Hollywood style premiere just in time for the holidays at the Epic Theatres in Palm Coast.
Rolling out the red carpet, the star-studded cast of Bernie the Dolphin spent the evening talking with families
and fans before screening the movie.
Filming for Bernie the Dolphin 2 began after the December 2018 premiere of the first film, and guests of the
Marineland Dolphin Adventure attraction received a behind-the-scenes look at how the second movie was
being created, while here on location.
Producer Marty Poole, who also co-wrote the scripts with Florida teacher Terri Emerson, was excited to talk
about the inspiration behind the films that have worldwide distribution through Lionsgate Home
Entertainment and Grindstone Entertainment.
“It’s loosely based on things that happen with dolphins being beached and that’s what we really wanted to
do,” he said of the first Bernie the Dolphin movie.
“Partnering up with Marineland was so cool because of the protection and how careful they are with taking
care of the animals. It’s really about trying to do something that’s giving back to society, so if we can add
something (while) teaching, especially the kids, and bring families and kids together, it’s all blessings in my
book,” said Poole.
“It’s been such a joy to be back,” he said, watching takes for Bernie the Dolphin 2 on the deck at Marineland.
“I’ve been trying to get to Florida to make films for years because it’s so beautiful.”
Actor Patrick Muldoon’s character Bob Ryan, is the father of Holly and Kevin Ryan, and says the film’s positive
message brings families together while helping us realize the impact of our decisions on future generations.
“It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a heartwarming movie that also has an environmental message that gets relayed
through the eyes of our kids,” said Muldoon of filming with child stars Lola Sultan and Logan Allen.
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