The Penguin Lessons

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The Penguin Lessons

PG-13

Released Mar 28

1h 50m

Comedy

Drama

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Popcornmeter

77%

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126 Reviews

95%

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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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Kevin Maher

The Times (UK)

Yes, it’s ostensibly sweet and inoffensive. But it’s so inoffensive that it’s almost, well, offensive.

Rated: 2/5

Apr 28, 2025

Full Review

Tim Robey

Daily Telegraph (UK)

Peter Cattaneo...is normally a surer hand with shading, but the script by Coogan’s regular collaborator Jeff Pope...also keeps defaulting to penguin lols – it waddles, it’s cute, repeat – rather than giving the ensemble much to do.

Rated: 2/5

Apr 22, 2025

Full Review

Wendy Ide

Observer (UK)

Adapted from Tom Michell’s autobiographical book, The Penguin Lessons counters the inspirational teacher cliches with a bumbling charm that’s boosted considerably by a first-rate performance from the scene-stealing penguin.

Rated: 3/5

Apr 21, 2025

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Liselotte Vanophem

Geek Vibes Nation

Like the characters in this feature, the world currently has to deal with severe political unrest. However, occasionally, a ray of sunshine comes through the dark clouds and The Penguin Lessons is precisely that.

Rated: 8/10

Jul 13, 2025

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Maxance Vincent

Film Speak

While Peter Cattaneo’s The Penguin Lessons contains a memorable lead turn from Steve Coogan, one can’t wash the foul taste the film leaves with its ill-conceived trivialization of a dark period in Argentina's history.

Rated: D

Jul 11, 2025

Full Review

Pablo O. Scholz

Clarín

The story told in The Penguin Lessons is real, and it invites a paraphrase of Ripley's famous slogan: It's true, even if you don't believe it. [Full review in Spanish]

Rated: 3/4

Jul 11, 2025

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Steven S

It was funny and poignant.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/17/25

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merav

Loved it and the fact that’s it is based on a true story makes it even better.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/15/25

Full Review

James J. O

It was a charming, subtly funny film for all ages.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

05/12/25

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Michael Deeee

A first rate, touching tale of personal growth and kindness.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/12/25

Full Review

Kristy M

Loved this heartfelt, character driven movie! Two thumbs up!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/27/25

Full Review

Rodrigo

Really good movie, lots of messages in a very entertaining movie good for all family

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

04/26/25

Full Review

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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
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 29, 2025
Box Office (Gross USA): $3.3M
Runtime: 1h 50m
Aspect Ratio: Flat (1.85:1)

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