Dolphin Tale

At a swimming competition, Sawyer's older cousin Kyle discusses his aspirations to compete in the Olympics with his former coach, Russ. The conversation weighs heavily on Sawyer, who struggles with the fact that Kyle may have to enlist in the military to fund his ambitions.

During Kyle's going-away party, Sawyer feels increasingly distant from his cousin as tensions rise. Meanwhile, his mother confides in a neighbor about Sawyer's struggles in school, which ultimately leads to his enrollment in summer school.

While biking to school, Sawyer encounters a fisherman, Richard, who is desperately trying to help an injured bottlenose dolphin caught in a crab trap. The dolphin is rushed to Clearwater Marine Hospital, where it is treated by Dr. Clay Haskett.

At the hospital, Dr. Haskett's daughter, Hazel, names the rescued dolphin Winter, wishing for continued success in their rescue efforts. Clay reluctantly allows Sawyer to visit Winter, noting the special bond that forms between them.

Despite being enrolled in summer school for barely passing his classes, Sawyer begins skipping to spend time with Winter. His mother Lorraine eventually notices Sawyer's improved mood and decides to allow him to volunteer at the aquarium instead.

Winter faces a tragic event when her tail becomes severely damaged and must be amputated. Adaptively, she learns to swim using a side-to-side motion, but this unnatural technique puts her health at risk.

Kyle returns from military service with a serious leg injury, creating an exciting yet heartbreaking reunion with Sawyer. Instead of attending the welcome-back gathering, Kyle chooses to focus on his recovery at the VA Medical Center.

Determined to save Winter, Sawyer reaches out to Dr. Cameron McCarthy, who is familiar with Kyle's case. Dr. McCarthy is convinced to develop a custom prosthetic tail for Winter, kindling hope for the dolphin's recovery.

The Clearwater Marine Hospital faces grave financial issues, worsened by Hurricane LeRoy's impact. The board seriously considers closing the facility, putting Winter's life in jeopardy, with euthanasia being a last resort.

After witnessing the inspirational visit of a mother and daughter with prosthetic limbs, Sawyer hatches a plan to host 'Save Winter Day.' This event aims to rally support and donations to save the hospital and Winter.

In a bid to gain attention for the cause, Kyle considers a competitive swim against his former rival, Donovan Peck. He engages a local news outlet to help publicize the event, creating a buzz in the community.

On the day of the event, Winter initially rejects the new prosthetic tail. However, Sawyer discovers the irritation arises from the material, prompting Dr. McCarthy to develop a more suitable solution that Winter finally accepts.

On the day of 'Save Winter Day,' Winter is released into the river as a culmination of Sawyer's hard work. His contributions lead to positive recognition, allowing him to pass summer school, despite the absence from formal classes.

With the community rallying behind them, donations pour in, ensuring the hospital's survival. The event concludes with an emotional race between Kyle and Donovan, where Winter's presence helps Kyle secure a heartfelt victory.

The film concludes with real footage of Winter's rescue and recovery, highlighting her joyful life at the aquarium. Inspirational messages underscore Winter's role in motivating other amputees who visit to find hope in her story.