“The Penguin Lessons”, based on Tom Michell’s autobiographical novel, tells the poignant story of a British teacher in 1976 Buenos Aires and the penguin who unexpectedly transforms his life.
Steve Coogan stars as Tom, an emotionally detached teacher who moves to Argentina during a turbulent political period, just before a military coup. Tom isolates himself, adopting a cynical, uncommitted approach to both teaching and life. His routine is briefly interrupted when he travels to Uruguay with a colleague. After a night out, he discovers a beach strewn with penguins coated in oil. While most are dead, one survives, prompting Tom to rescue the bird, hoping to nurse it back to health and perhaps win over a local woman.
When the night ends abruptly, Tom tries to release the penguin—later named Juan Salvador—back into the ocean, but the bird refuses to leave. Both Argentine and Uruguayan authorities inform him that he must keep the penguin. What follows is an unexpected journey of care, as Tom, aided by his housekeeper Maria (Vivian El Jaber) and her granddaughter Sofia (Alfonsina Carrocio), hides Juan Salvador from the school’s headmaster (Jonathan Pryce).
Director Peter Cattaneo, known for “The Full Monty”, balances Tom’s cynicism with Coogan’s dry, understated delivery. Tom comes across as emotionally distant, but rarely unlikable. As Tom’s relationship with the penguin deepens, so does the film’s emotional core. The script by Jeff Pope subtly weaves in the political unrest in Argentina, culminating in a reflective moment when Tom fails to act as Sofia is kidnapped. This encounter with one of her captors stands out as one of the film’s most powerful moments.
Coogan, known for his roles in “The Trip” series and “Philomena”, is perfectly cast as a character who straddle the line between cynicism and charm. His portrayal of Tom is both subtly moving and dryly humorous, especially in his early interactions with the penguin, from reluctant caregiver to affectionate companion.
While the “gruff teacher learning to care” trope is familiar—think “Mr. Holland’s Opus” or “Sister Act”—”The Penguin Lessons” stands out with its quieter, more understated approach. The film’s charm lies not just in the penguin at its heart, but in how it helps Tom rediscover his capacity for care. In a country gripped by political fear and uncertainty, Juan Salvador becomes a symbol of hope and joy, offering comfort not only to Tom but also to those around him. The penguin’s presence serves as a rare distraction from the tension and loss felt by many.
“The Penguin Lessons” may not hit high drama, but it has a quiet heart that resonates quite deeply.
Letter Grade: B