“Dolphin Tale” is a film that many probably expected to be more schmaltzy than it actually turned out to be (especially since it’s a family film involving an animal, generally the worst kind of family films), and that’s a good thing.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, “Dolphin Tale” “”[w]isely dial[ed] down the schmaltz…and is a well-told, a rare family film that both kids and parents can enjoy.” The critics gave it a 83% fresh rating and the audiences rated it just as highly with 82%. However, not all critics liked it. Liam Lacey of the Globe and Mail said the film gets smothered in “inspirational family values guff” and Lisa Kennedy of the Denver Post said the movie’s dialogue can be tin-eared and has comedy specifically designed for kids, not adults.

However, most of the critics loved it, which goes to show that a family-friendly film involving animals can be entertaining for all-ages and not just something you turn on for the kids so you can leave and enjoy other films.

But what do you think? If you saw “Dolphin Tale,” do you think the film is full of sugary fluff or actual family storytelling? Give your opinions in the comments section below.