‘They’re curious and playful’: Dolphin documentary to hold premiere screening in Edmonton

A shot of a pod of dolphins shown in the documentary "Call of the Dolphins." (Courtesy: Jonathan Bird)

A new documentary featuring dolphins is making its debut at the Telus World of Science (TWOSE) Friday evening.

Call of the Dolphins focuses on humanity’s fascination and deep connection with the aquatic creatures.

• Get the latest Edmonton updates right to your inbox

Emmy-award winning cinematographer and director Jonathan Bird told CTV Morning Live’s Kim Wynn the process of filming the dolphins underwater.

“Dolphins are frustrating and fascinating to work with,” Bird said on Friday’s broadcast. “They are pranksters. They have a very sophisticated sense of humor and they like to make fun of the cinematographers and show how badly we swim.”

He said the film sheds light on people who interact with dolphins, including researchers and rescuers who save stranded dolphins.

Bird said one of his highlights in the film is a captain of 35 years is shown playing keep away with the dolphins.

“The thing that’s a little bit frustrating about it is that they’re so curious about the cameraman that it’s hard to get them to go back to doing their normal thing,” said the cinematographer.

“When you get in the water, the first thing they want to do is play with you, because they’re just curious and playful, and so it takes a long time to get them to finally decide that you’re not that exciting.”

The premiere begins at 8:30 p.m. on Friday and will be followed by a Q and A session with the director.

Tickets for Call of the Dolphins are available at the TWOSE website.