TideBreakers backs CGI whales in Free Willy remake, pushes end to captivity

TideBreakers says Warner Bros.’ reported decision to use CGI whales in the new Free Willy remake shows the film industry can avoid captive animals. The group is using the remake to press for an end to whale and dolphin breeding and captivity worldwide.

Why it matters: - TideBreakers is trying to turn a high-profile remake into pressure on Warner Bros. and the wider film industry to stop using captive whales and dolphins. - The group says the movie can reinforce changing public expectations that marine mammals belong in the ocean, not in entertainment facilities. - The campaign also targets captive breeding, which TideBreakers frames as a key step toward ending lifelong confinement.

What happened: - TideBreakers welcomed Warner Bros.’ reported decision to use computer-generated whales instead of live captive animals in the upcoming Free Willy remake. - The organization said the choice shows modern filmmaking can tell the story without using animals held in captivity. - TideBreakers called on the filmmakers to partner with the organization on a global commitment to end whale and dolphin captivity for entertainment. - TideBreakers also urged Warner Bros. to publicly support an end to captive breeding of whales and dolphins.

The details: - TideBreakers said the original Free Willy inspired millions of people to think differently about marine mammals and their place in the wild. - The group said using visual effects is both a technological step forward and a response to growing concern about animal welfare. - TideBreakers said continuing to breed whales and dolphins in captivity keeps highly intelligent, socially complex animals in artificial environments. - Jana Richardson of TideBreakers said there are more than 50 orca held in captivity worldwide. - Richardson said two of them, Keijo and Wikie, are in a deteriorating situation at a shuttered marine park in Antibes, France. - Richardson said dolphins are used for experiential swims in multiple places, including shallow pools in Mexico on property rented to a third party by Hyatt hotels. - Richardson also said there are more than 30 beluga whales in a closed marine park in Canada. - Marketa Schusterova of TideBreakers said extraordinary storytelling does not require captive animals.

Between the lines: - TideBreakers is linking a beloved family film to a broader animal-welfare argument that is already gaining traction among the public, institutions and some governments. - The group is also using direct quotes to sharpen the case that captive breeding is the real policy target, not just the use of live animals in one film. - The remake gives TideBreakers a public-facing moment to push a message beyond entertainment and into conservation policy.

What's next: - TideBreakers said it looks forward to engaging with Warner Bros. and the creative team behind Free Willy. - The organization wants the remake to become a platform for support of ending whale and dolphin captivity and captive breeding worldwide. - TideBreakers said it wants future storytelling to celebrate marine life while supporting a future in which whales and dolphins live in the wild.