Looking for the perfect family film over the Easter holidays? The Penguin Lessons is a delightful, heartwarming treat for both kids and grown-ups – a gentle reminder that sometimes the most unexpected friendships can change your life… even if they come wearing a tuxedo.
Based on the bestselling memoirs of Tom Michell, The Penguin Lessons tells the true story of a young English teacher working in Argentina in the 1970s who rescues a penguin stranded on a Uruguayan beach, drenched in oil from a nearby spill. He cleans up the bird, names him Juan Salvador (yes, after the hippy-dippy Jonathan Livingston Seagull), and tries to send him back to the sea. But Juan Salvador (the double name is a thing. You cannot call him just Juan) has other plans – he follows Tom home and promptly becomes the most charming uninvited house guest in cinematic history.
Tom, played with warmth and dry wit by Steve Coogan, is initially disillusioned with teaching at a strict boys’ boarding school. The pupils are unruly, the staff stiff, and Tom’s own spark has been thoroughly doused. But once Juan Salvador waddles into his life, things begin to shift. The penguin isn’t just a pet – he becomes a confidant, a catalyst for change, and a delightful metaphor for resistance, resilience, and empathy in a troubled world.
Set against the backdrop of Argentina’s political turmoil in the mid-1970s, the film deftly weaves in historical context without losing its gentle tone. Yes, there are darker elements – references to the military coup, inflation, and the terrifying reality of the ‘disappeared’ – but these are handled with sensitivity and honesty. The inclusion of the ‘Mothers of the Disappeared’ adds a powerful note of courage and activism to the story. It’s a testament to how personal stories and political landscapes often intertwine.
Some critics have questioned the blend of a feel-good penguin tale with the harrowing backdrop of dictatorship – but that criticism feels misplaced. History was full of contradictions. To borrow from the Doctor Zhivago defence: you can’t fault a story for being set during chaos and still offering hope and love. The penguin doesn’t trivialise the politics – he simply provides a window into humanity during dark times.
Visually, the film is stunning – though set in Argentina, it was largely filmed in the Canary Islands, which stand in beautifully for South American coastlines and rolling pampas. There’s plenty of adorable penguin footage (which little ones will adore), and the school scenes are wonderfully cast, with mischievous boys, a gruff but ultimately redeemable headmaster, and a strong supporting turn from Alfonsina Carrocio as Sofía, the quietly wise maid with revolutionary leanings.
The pace is refreshing – slow but never sluggish, thoughtful without becoming preachy. For children, it offers humour and heart (and lots of penguin antics); for parents, it provides genuine insight into a turbulent historical moment and the profound power of kindness.
Highlights include Tom inspiring his students to crawl under desks to see the world from a new perspective, quoting poetry as subtle rebellion, and, of course, his growing bond with Juan Salvador – a creature of few words but endless emotional resonance. The message? One person can make a difference, even if they start by helping just one small bird.
In a world full of CGI explosions and fast-paced animation, The Penguin Lessons stands out for its quiet bravery and emotional depth. It’s a film about friendship, conviction, and choosing compassion over indifference – all through the story of a man, a penguin, and a chaotic country learning to find its way.
The Verdict
A perfect Easter holiday watch – heartwarming, smart, and full of soul.
Bring tissues, bring the kids, and maybe bring some fish (just in case Juan Salvador pops by).
London Mums’ Rating: 10/10
Best for: Ages 5+ and grown-ups who secretly wish they had a penguin friend.
The Penguin Lessons is in cinemas 18th April – Book tickets at thepenguinlessons.co.uk
