In a heartwarming tale that transcends time and borders, the film The Penguin Lessons brings to life the extraordinary story of Tom Michell, a British teacher who befriended a penguin during his time in Argentina in the 1970s. Based on Michell's memoir, the film, which stars Steve Coogan as the lead character, is set against the tumultuous backdrop of Argentina's military junta.
It all began in 1975 when a young Michell, then just 23, discovered a penguin on the coast of Punta del Este, Uruguay. The bird was drenched in oil from an ocean spill, and Michell, driven by compassion, decided to rescue it. He named the penguin Juan Salvador, and what started as a simple act of kindness blossomed into an unlikely friendship that would change both their lives.
"It was a tiny movement, really. I almost missed it. If the penguin hadn’t flapped his wings, I would have assumed he was dead like all the others… Then none of this would have ever happened," Michell recalled during a recent interview from his home in Cornwall. Now 73, he reflects on his incredible journey with Juan Salvador, who became not just a pet, but a symbol of hope and resilience.
Juan Salvador quickly became the mascot for the rugby team at St George’s College in Argentina, where Michell taught. The penguin's antics not only entertained the students but also helped Michell reconnect with them at a time when he was grappling with personal tragedy. "I really think it fits this idea of the 'chaos theory', that because things are unpredictable, very small changes can lead to bigger ones later on," Michell mused. His life took a remarkable turn, leading him to write a book about his experiences, which subsequently caught the attention of Disney's Animal Planet.
In 2016, Lionsgate acquired the film rights to Michell's book, but the journey to the big screen was fraught with challenges. After a battle with cancer and delays due to COVID-19, filming finally commenced in 2023. Michell expressed his astonishment at how far his story has come: "Who would have thought that 50 years ago I would see a penguin flap its wings in oil, and now Steve Coogan is playing me in a film? It’s just been extraordinary, absolutely extraordinary."
The film, directed by Peter Cattaneo, who is known for his work on The Full Monty, premiered in London on April 3, 2025, with both Michell and Coogan in attendance. The film's narrative, while centered around the penguin, also touches on the political climate of the time, as the military junta began to seize power in Argentina.
As the story unfolds, Michell's character is portrayed as a man who has lost his way, haunted by the death of his daughter in a tragic accident. The arrival of Juan Salvador serves as a catalyst for change, reigniting his passion for teaching and life itself. In a poignant scene, he smuggles the penguin into class, using it as a tool to engage his students and encourage them to think critically about their world.
In a recent review, critics noted that Coogan's performance captures the essence of Michell's journey. However, they also pointed out that the film's character development sometimes falls short, with the classroom depicted as a rather undifferentiated group of students. Despite this, moments of genuine connection between Michell and his students shine through, particularly as he introduces them to the poetry of John Masefield.
As the political situation in Argentina deteriorates, Michell's courage is put to the test. His housekeeper's granddaughter, Sofia, a budding activist, goes missing, prompting him to confront the oppressive regime. This shift in the narrative underscores the film's deeper themes of bravery and moral responsibility, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Critics have praised the film for its heartwarming portrayal of friendship and resilience, although some have noted that it sometimes leans too heavily on the comedic elements of having a penguin in a classroom. The penguin itself, primarily a live Magellanic penguin, is a standout feature, with filmmakers ensuring its safety and well-being throughout production.
The Magellanic penguin, known for its distinctive black and white markings, is native to South America and has a unique nesting behavior, often burrowing in the ground. With an estimated 1.3 million breeding pairs globally, these penguins are a beloved species, and their presence in the film adds an authentic touch to Michell's story.
As The Penguin Lessons hits theaters on April 18, 2025, audiences can expect not just a charming tale of a teacher and his feathered friend, but also a reflection on the power of compassion and the impact of small actions in a chaotic world. Michell's story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, hope and connection can emerge from the most unexpected places.
In conclusion, The Penguin Lessons is more than just a film about a penguin; it's a celebration of life, resilience, and the bonds that can form across species. With its blend of humor and poignant moments, it promises to be a touching experience for viewers of all ages.
