Movies

‘The Penguin Lessons,’ starring a teacher’s pet, has feel-good movie moments down cold

BBG News

The special bond between humans and animals has been a frequent subject in films; what sets “The Penguin Lessons” apart, based on Tom Michell’s 2015 memoir, is the exotic nature of both the animal and the environment, while the lesson it conveys is still recognizable. This movie, penned by screenwriter Jeff Pope (“Philomena,” “The Lost King”) and helmed by Peter Cattaneo (“The Full Monty”), is handled by a team that excels in presenting unconventional human tales with humor and subtle effectiveness, and they bring their signature British wit to the production.

As Tom (Steve Coogan), an English teacher, arrives at St. George’s College in Buenos Aires just before the 1976 military coup, he maintains a stoic demeanor and a touch of cynicism. He seems focused on keeping a low profile and avoiding trouble rather than engaging with his students or the turbulent political climate. Even friendship appears to be of little concern to him. During a bus trip to Uruguay to escape the coup, Tom’s straightforward Finnish colleague Tapio (Björn Gustafsson) expresses that he likes Tom, to which Tom responds skeptically, “You do? I don’t.

It’s during this unforgettable journey to Punta del Este that Tom’s life takes an unexpected turn following a night spent with an enchanting lady named Micaela Breque. As the sun rises over the beach, they stumble upon a disheartening sight – an oil spill littered with dead penguins. Moved by compassion, his new friend encourages him to rescue one of the remaining birds and bring it to his hotel for treatment, before abruptly departing. Tom is left with the bird, which miraculously survives. Despite his attempts to get rid of his unexpected guest, the penguin becomes persistent, forcing Tom to take it back to Argentina and eventually into his university dormitory, as no one else seems keen on caring for a roaming penguin.

In the realm of heartwarming and chuckle-inducing animal tales, my world took an unexpected turn when I found myself crossroads with Juan Salvador, a penguin who shook up my monotonous life. As I navigated his care, feeding, and secretive hideaways, I discovered the beauty of opening up to those around me – people like Maria (played by Vivian El Jaber), the campus chef extraordinaire, and her spirited granddaughter Sophia (Alfonsina Carrocio). She was a firebrand with leftist leanings, urging me not just to engage in politics but to become an active member of our community. “I don’t expect evil from the wicked,” she once said, “but when the good do nothing, I could knock them flat.

Movies

Capture all the screenwriters, movie directors, and actors as they pass by the L.A. Times Studio over the inaugural weekend of the Toronto International Film Festival for our gallery.

Juan Salvador serves as Tom’s unique means to connect with his rowdy pupils, managing their scattered focus with the uncommon (and endearing) pet animal. He discovers a spark to educate them on subtly rebellious poetry, which displeases the school principal, Jonathan Pryce. The little penguin eventually becomes something of a symbol, an appealing mascot they can unite behind and a source of therapy, so to speak.

Juan Salvador encourages Tom to build relationships, which ultimately helps him gain strength during Argentina’s military dictatorship. Cattaneo and Pope skillfully blend a gripping historical account of fascism with an enchanting animal tale, using Coogan as their secret ingredient. His witty humor softens the bitter moments and prevents the overly sentimental ones from becoming too saccharine. Even in the face of deep sorrow, he manages to insert a dry joke, and in moments where Tom’s vulnerability is exposed, we appreciate the struggle it takes for this character to step out of his comfort zone.

The Penguin Lessons” follows a predictable pattern, yet it’s a heartwarming tale that gains more impact due to being inspired by real events. Fortunately, Cattaneo chose to use real birds instead of CGI ones, making the idea of Coogan acting with a computer-generated penguin quite unsettling.

I’d like to emphasize that while the bond we share with animals can be incredibly special and enriching, “The Penguin Lessons” serves as a reminder of how our human relationships are truly invaluable. At times, animals, such as Juan Salvador, can serve as exceptional guides on this unique human journey.

Katie Walsh is a Tribune News Service film critic.

Read More

2025-03-29 03:01

Previous post Josh Brolin joins “The Martian meets 127 Hours” thriller about a whale swallowing a man
Next post Susanna Reid’s Ibiza Clubbing Spree with Sons: Planning Solo Trips Post Nest-Emptying