I was initially captivated by the title, but when I read the book, I soon discovered how deeply I connected with The Penguin Lessons, Tom Michell’s non-fiction memoir that recounts his unexpected bond with a rescued penguin.
So when they made book into a movie, I couldn’t wait to watch the adaptation.
Set against Argentina’s turbulent post‑Perón era, the film follows Tom Michell and the penguin he rescued from an oil slick off Uruguay’s coast. When this resolute bird refuses to leave his side, Tom is forced to smuggle his unconventional companion across international borders, through customs, and into the hallowed halls of a prestigious Argentine boarding school.
Originally casually called Peter Penguin, he earns the more befitting name Juan Salvador. His very presence ripples through the school community—whether he’s mascot for the rugby team or lending a sympathetic ear to Tom or the housekeeper or anyone who needed a listening ear.
Juan Salvador becomes Tom’s guide on a journey of unexpected friendships, daunting challenges, and profound discoveries. Covering themes of friendship, loss, and personal transformation, it is a touching reflection on life’s surprising pathways as nothing could have prepared Tom for the surprise of an animal companion—a penguin.
I didn’t expect it to resonate with me as deeply as it did, evoking memories of Darcy, and reminding me that the most unexpected relationships can leave an indelible mark on our hearts.
A winning performance from Steve Coogan as Tom Michell with priceless support from his pint-sized live co-star – and not CGI. Though nominally G-rated, this warm, gentle tale brims with unexpected emotional depth—and it’s astonishingly a true story.
Amid glimpses of Argentina’s fraught political landscape, lending surprising heft to what feels like a feel‑good adventure, it is utterly charming. It will have you saddened by the turbulent politics, smiling at the penguin and reaching for tissues the next.
As a pet owner and a dog-lover, it will totally resonate with you.
The Penguin Lessons are available in cinemas from today. Here is a link to buy tickets.
Watch out for dog-friendly screenings in upcoming weeks as this will be one to go to watch with your pups.
