When the Whales Came (1989)

Synopsis: In 1844, residents of the British isle of Samson suddenly evacuate -- never to return -- allegedly due to an unexplained curse. Seventy years afterward, on the nearby island of Bryher, a pair of children, Max and Gracie, play along the shore. They meet the enigmatic "Birdman," whom the people... In 1844, residents of the British isle of Samson suddenly evacuate -- never to return -- allegedly due to an unexplained curse. Seventy years afterward, on the nearby island of Bryher, a pair of children, Max and Gracie, play along the shore. They meet the enigmatic "Birdman," whom the people in their town have warned them to avoid, and befriend him. Later, a "narwhal," or a tusked whale, beaches itself on the sands of Bryher. According to the Birdman, this event means the curse that struck Samson will soon destroy Bryher... unless the people can somehow save the whale. [More]