{"id":13381,"date":"2025-03-26T01:28:17","date_gmt":"2025-03-26T08:28:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/?p=13381"},"modified":"2025-12-12T12:20:57","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T19:20:57","slug":"the-penguin-lessons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/2025\/the-penguin-lessons\/","title":{"rendered":"The Penguin Lessons * Heartwarming And Inspiring Movie That Tells A Touching Story Of Friendship And Personal Growth"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-13391\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thePenguinlessons.poster.jpg?resize=123%2C183&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"123\" height=\"183\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thePenguinlessons.poster.jpg?resize=202%2C300&amp;ssl=1 202w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thePenguinlessons.poster.jpg?resize=691%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 691w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thePenguinlessons.poster.jpg?resize=768%2C1138&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/thePenguinlessons.poster.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 123px) 100vw, 123px\" \/>Inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who goes 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.<\/p>\n<p>KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eva M. comments, \u201c<em>The Penguin Lessons<\/em> is a heartwarming and inspiring movie that I absolutely love! It tells a touching story of friendship and personal growth, with a perfect mix of humor, adventure, and emotion. The beautiful setting, great acting, and meaningful message make this film a must-watch.\u201d Charlotte L. adds, \u201cI like <em>The Penguin Lessons<\/em> because the character\u2019s emotions are believable and the music mostly matches up with the scenes\u2026 The film\u2019s message is that even when we are not geographically in our home, we can find a home wherever we are. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, kissing, and sexual references.\u201d See their full reviews below.<\/p>\n<p>The Penguin Lessons<br \/>\nBy Eva M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/8Oq0Vxhv2Gg?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-13389 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PG.2.jpg?resize=231%2C156&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"231\" height=\"156\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PG.2.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PG.2.jpg?w=710&amp;ssl=1 710w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 231px) 100vw, 231px\" \/>The Penguin Lessons<\/em> is a heartwarming and inspiring movie that I absolutely love! It tells a touching story of friendship and personal growth, with a perfect mix of humor, adventure, and emotion. The beautiful setting, great acting, and meaningful message make this film a must-watch.<\/p>\n<p>This storyline follows Tom Michell (Steve Coogan), a British teacher who moves to Argentina in the 1970s to work at a prestigious boarding school. While traveling along the coast of Uruguay, he rescues a penguin covered in oil and names him Juan Salvador. The penguin refuses to leave Tom\u2019s side, so he brings him back to the school. What starts as an act of kindness turns into a life-changing journey as Juan Salvador becomes an important part of the school community, impacting the lives of students and teachers alike.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-13385\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.5.jpg?resize=233%2C158&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"233\" height=\"158\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.5.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.5.jpg?w=710&amp;ssl=1 710w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 233px) 100vw, 233px\" \/>One of the best things about <em>The Penguin Lessons<\/em> is how well it captures Argentina\u2019s beauty and culture. The film contrasts the breathtaking beaches of Uruguay with the strict and formal boarding school, highlighting the differences between freedom and discipline. Steve Coogan delivers a fantastic performance, showing Tom\u2019s growth from a skeptical teacher to someone who truly connects with his students and Juan Salvador. The penguin, full of personality, brings humor and warmth to every scene, making his presence feel real and engaging. The students\u2019 interactions with Juan Salvador add lighthearted and fun moments, balancing the film\u2019s deeper emotional themes. The cinematography beautifully displays Argentina\u2019s landscapes, while the music enhances both the joyful and heartfelt scenes.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-13384 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.6.jpg?resize=228%2C154&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"228\" height=\"154\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.6.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.6.jpg?w=710&amp;ssl=1 710w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 228px) 100vw, 228px\" \/>The film also reflects the political climate of Argentina in the 1970s, a time of government instability and growing tensions, which adds an extra layer of depth to the story. My favorite part is watching Juan Salvador bring happiness to the school; proving that even the smallest creatures can make a big impact.<\/p>\n<p>The film carries important messages about kindness and loyalty, and shows how even small acts of compassion can make a big difference. It also highlights the importance of protecting wildlife and the environment. We see how unexpected friendships can change lives in ways that we don\u2019t expect. Be aware that there are some emotional scenes, especially when Tom rescues the penguin from the oil spill. There is also some mild romance and mild profanity.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>The Penguin Lessons<\/em> 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This uplifting and inspiring film releases in theaters on March 28, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>The Penguin Lessons<br \/>\nBy Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3PkNWjfbgvI?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-13383 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.7.jpg?resize=230%2C156&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"230\" height=\"156\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.7.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.7.jpg?w=710&amp;ssl=1 710w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 230px) 100vw, 230px\" \/>I like <em>The Penguin Lessons<\/em> because the character\u2019s emotions are believable and the music mostly matches up with the scenes.<\/p>\n<p><em>The Penguin Lessons <\/em>is a documentary based on a true story about a young British English teacher in Argentina, Tom Michell (Steve Coogan) who finds and takes care of a penguin. Argentina is in a troubled and calamitous time when Tom finds the penguin, which he names Juan Salvador. Tom is faced with many struggles with both the penguin and the chaos going on around him. Even through the struggles, though, Tom finds friends and begins to find a home in Argentina.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><em><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-13386\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.4.jpg?resize=231%2C156&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"231\" height=\"156\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.4.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.4.jpg?w=710&amp;ssl=1 710w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 231px) 100vw, 231px\" \/><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>The Penguin Lessons <\/em>has wonderful and realistic emotions portrayed by the actors. For example, Steve Coogan plays an uncaring, or at least, seemingly uncaring character, Tom Michell. He keeps his face straight and his voice monotone during sad, happy, or humorous scenes. He stays in character when he is making jokes or telling a sad story. This really brings the story to life and helps us understand the character and what he is truly like. Many of the actors in this movie are Argentinian or have an Argentinian accent and, even though it can be a bit confusing, especially with the occasional dialogue changes from English to Spanish, the directors and producers make sure the actors are easy to understand and we know what is going on.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-13382 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.8.jpg?resize=235%2C159&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"235\" height=\"159\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.8.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/PL.8.jpg?w=710&amp;ssl=1 710w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 235px) 100vw, 235px\" \/>While most scenes have matching music, some scenes feel a bit different than the tone of the music. At times we hear calm music when the scene is not so calming. For example, when a friend tells Tom about his wife leaving him, there is calm music in the background and it doesn\u2019t match the mood of the scene. For the most part, the music helps enhance the emotions of the scenes and makes the story feel real.<\/p>\n<p>The film\u2019s message is that even when we are not geographically in our home, we can find a home wherever we are. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, kissing, and sexual references.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>The Penguin Lessons <\/em>4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on March 28, 2025.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xdjEXNX1nSA?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who goes 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. <\/p>\n<p>KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eva M. comments, \u201cThe Penguin Lessons is a heartwarming and inspiring movie that I absolutely love! It tells a touching story of friendship and personal growth, with a perfect mix of humor, adventure, and emotion.\u201d Charlotte L. adds, \u201cI like The Penguin Lessons because the character\u2019s emotions are believable and the music mostly matches up with the scenes\u2026 The film\u2019s message is that even when we are not geographically in our home, we can find a home wherever we are. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, kissing, and sexual references.\u201d <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[4949,15],"tags":[8871,8878,8870,1783,470,6590,8872,8868,8866,8873,636,1166,1348,8136,3534,8867,8874,8876,45,8879,5257,8884,8877,8880,8881,8882,8883,8869,8875],"class_list":["post-13381","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-feature-film","category-feature-film-reviews","tag-aimar-miranda","tag-argentina","tag-bjorn-gustafsson-david-herrero","tag-by-kids-for-kids","tag-drama","tag-friend","tag-hugo-fuertes","tag-jeff-pope","tag-jonathan-pryce","tag-micaela-breque","tag-movie","tag-movie-reviews","tag-movies","tag-penguin","tag-penguins","tag-peter-cattaneo","tag-romina-cocca","tag-school","tag-sony-pictures","tag-sony-pictures-classics","tag-steve-coogan","tag-steven-coogan","tag-teacher","tag-the-penguin-lessons","tag-the-penguin-lessons-movie","tag-the-penguin-lessons-movie-review","tag-the-penguin-lessons-review","tag-tom-michell","tag-vivian-el-jaber"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/paS5I2-3tP","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13381","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13381"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13381\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13396,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13381\/revisions\/13396"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13381"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13381"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13381"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}