Movies like When the Whales Came

Free Willy is the story of a young boy's fight to save a captive orca from exploitation and a life of confinement. Like When the Whales Came, this film highlights the significance of preserving nature and the unique bond that can form between humans and wildlife.

Eight Below is an adventure drama based on a true story about a guide who must leave his team of sled dogs behind in Antarctica as they struggle to survive in the wilderness. It's a testament to the survival spirit, both human and animal, mirroring the emotional depth and environmental consciousness seen in When the Whales Came.

Set in New Zealand, Whale Rider is a poignant tale of a young Maori girl who challenges tradition and embraces her destiny to become the chief of her tribe. Its cultural depth and celebration of nature's majesty will resonate with viewers who enjoy stories about the interplay between humans, animals, and the environment, akin to When the Whales Came.

Fly Away Home is a heartwarming film that follows the journey of a young girl and her father as they help a flock of orphaned geese migrate south. Fans of When the Whales Came will appreciate the film’s tender exploration of the bond between humans and animals, as well as its lush, natural settings.

Dolphin Tale is an inspiring story of a rescued dolphin named Winter who loses her tail in a crab trap. Its emphasis on the human-animal relationship and overcoming adversity through communal efforts resonates with the same themes found in When the Whales Came.

This lyrical tale captivates with its blend of folklore and reality, centering on a young girl who discovers a mysterious connection between her family and the selkies — mythological creatures that are part seal, part human. Those who enjoy the mystical and environmental elements of When the Whales Came will find a similar spirit in The Secret of Roan Inish.