The Penguin Lessons

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The Penguin Lessons

PG-13

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1h 50m

Comedy

Drama

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83%

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90 Reviews

94%

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100+ Verified Ratings

Inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who went to work in a school in Argentina in 1976. Expecting an easy ride, Tom discovers a divided nation and a class of unteachable students. However, after he rescues a penguin from an oil-slicked beach, his life is turned upside-down.

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Critics Consensus

The Penguin Lessons is appealing even if it curiously elides some disturbing geopolitical history, and is elevated by a winning performance from Steve Coogan with a little help from a lovable pint-sized companion.

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Ty Burr

Washington Post

When all is said and done, “The Penguin Lessons” is about finding the courage to stand up to injustice at one’s own peril

Rated: 2.5/4

Mar 31, 2025

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Rex Reed

Observer

Despite the danger of G-rated sentimentality, which everyone involved heroically avoids, The Penguin Lessons is a work of surprising depth and subtle, irresistible impact.

Rated: 3.5/4

Mar 31, 2025

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Katie Walsh

Tribune News Service

Cattaneo and Pope manage to balance the tone of a dramatic historical depiction of fascism with a charming animal story and their secret weapon is Coogan.

Rated: 3/4

Mar 29, 2025

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Eddie Harrison

film-authority.com

…The Penguin Lessons is about loving life and people as well as birds, a feel-food film designed to put audiences in touch with their feelings, and succeeding due to a significant turn from Steve Coogan in the leading role…should take flight domestically.

Rated: 4/5

Apr 16, 2025

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Jack Martin

Film Feeder

A wholesome if weightless comedy-drama that features an adorable central turn from the titular penguin, but also some ill-fated depictions of 70s Argentina that while nobly-minded come off as overly hollow.

Rated: 3/5

Apr 16, 2025

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Sarah Knight Adamson

Sarah's Backstage Pass

Tom's penguin consistently brings humor to all scenes--overall, I found this heartwarming film enjoyable, highlighting kindness, empathy, and caring--stay for the end credits, you'll see a 1970s clip of the penguin swimming in Tom's outdoor pool.

Rated: 4/4

Apr 14, 2025

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Diane

I liked everything except the language that wasnt necessary. It couldve been a great kids movie too.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

04/14/25

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Melissa M

Amazing that this was based on a true story. I expected the smile-on-my-face penguin scenes...loved every second. Didn't expect the very important (in today's climate) back story. Good movie for my husband & me. We both really enjoyed it.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

04/13/25

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robert w

What if Dead Poets Society was set in 1970s Argentina and had a Penguin? Almost an art film but with enough Hollywood to make it enjoyable, if a bit predictable. A movie with heart, and a penguin.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/12/25

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Paul C

Very good acting and great story

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/12/25

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Meloney

Such a good movie! I didn’t realize it was based on a true story until the end. Go see it.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/11/25

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Felicia G

This movie was based on true events. It takes place in 1976 Argentina during a revolt. It is the story of a man who finds his voice and finally stands up for what he holds dear. It is definitely worth seeing.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

04/09/25

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Peter Cattaneo

Director

Micaela Breque

Actor

Tomás Pozzi

Actor

Ramiro Blas

Actor

Steve Coogan

Tom Michel

Björn Gustafsson

Actor

The Penguin Lessons: Teaser Trailer

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The Penguin Lessons: Trailer 1

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Synopsis

Inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who went to work in a school in Argentina in 1976. Expecting an easy ride, Tom discovers a divided nation and a class of unteachable students. However, after he rescues a penguin from an oil-slicked beach, his life is turned upside-down.

Director: Peter Cattaneo
Producer: Rory Aitken, Ben Pugh, Robert Walak, Adrián Guerra, Andrew Noble
Screenwriter: Jeff Pope
Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics
Production Co: 42, Nostromo Pictures
Rating: PG-13 (Thematic Elements|Strong Language|Some Sexual References)
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Mar 28, 2025, Wide
Box Office (Gross USA): $2.3M
Runtime: 1h 50m
Aspect Ratio: Flat (1.85:1)