Moviegoers will have the opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of dolphins when the acclaimed documentary Call of the Dolphins arrives at Fernbank Museum’s Giant Screen Theater on July 6.
Fresh off a successful awards season, the film earned Best Film, Best Cinematography and Best Sound Design honors at the 2026 GSCA Achievement Awards. Narrated by Academy Award-winning actress Mary Steenburgen, the immersive giant-screen experience combines breathtaking underwater cinematography with compelling stories of science, conservation and human connection.
The documentary takes audiences beneath the ocean’s surface to explore the lives of dolphins, highlighting their playful behavior, sophisticated communication systems and strong family bonds. Through stunning visuals and firsthand encounters, viewers gain an intimate look at how dolphins interact with one another and with humans.
“Humans have long been fascinated by these magnificent mammals and their playful antics,” said Dr. Bobbi Hohmann, Fernbank’s Vice President of Programming and Collections. “These complex animals play an important role in the ecosystem, and through their charismatic personalities, inspire us to protect and conserve the world’s oceans.”
The film follows researchers, conservationists and rescue teams working to better understand and safeguard dolphin populations around the world. Among those featured is Captain Wayne Scott Smith, who has spent more than three decades developing a unique relationship with Atlantic spotted dolphins in the Bahamas. His work has helped provide researchers and visitors with rare opportunities to observe and interact with native dolphin pods in their natural habitat.
Audiences will also accompany scientists in Hawaii and Florida as they study dolphin communication, including signature whistles and specialized forms of “baby talk” used between mothers and calves. The documentary examines a range of dolphin behaviors, from nurturing young offspring to sophisticated hunting techniques.
Beyond celebrating the intelligence and charisma of dolphins, Call of the Dolphins addresses some of the threats these marine mammals face, including pollution, habitat disruption and strandings. The film spotlights the rescue efforts of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) team in Cape Cod, which responds to and rescues hundreds of stranded dolphins each year.
Produced and directed by Jonathan Bird, the film is a MacGillivray Freeman Films presentation and a production of Oceanic Research Group Films.
Designed for audiences of all ages, Call of the Dolphins blends adventure, science and conservation into a visually stunning experience that encourages viewers to develop a deeper appreciation for the ocean and the wildlife it supports.
The film is included with Fernbank Museum general admission, which provides access to the museum’s three floors of exhibits, one Giant Screen Theater film and exploration of Fernbank Forest and WildWoods. Fernbank Museum is located at 767 Clifton Road NE in Atlanta.
Tickets and additional information are available through Fernbank Museum.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.wfmz.com ’
