31/36
Starring Oscar-nominated Steve Coogan, this poignant dramedy from director Peter Cattaneo follows an Englishman’s personal and political awakening after he adopts a penguin during a cataclysmic period in Argentine history. “I used to be young and idealistic,” says Tom, who starts as a new teacher at a boarding school in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1976, “but I soon realized that reality is different.” Outspoken, hedonistic and unsentimental, Tom is undeterred by any sad story or fact, excusing his shortcomings and inaction. But when penguins covered in industrial oil wash up on a beach and fascists seize power in a coup, Tom faces a profound awakening despite everything. Steve Coogan (Tom) and Jonathan Pryce star in this true story full of wit, warmth, counterintuitive discoveries, humor, drama and cute penguin antics. There is real depth to the dialogue, characters, story arc and acting. The Penguin Lessons was filmed in Spain with an Argentinian cast. Many of the actors lived through the recent dictatorship in Argentina, bringing authenticity to the story. At the film’s world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, I was deeply moved by the realisation that in the face of so much evil and tragedy, just one person or one penguin can make a huge difference in the world. “Rise like lions after sleep In invincible numbers Shake your chains to the earth like dew That has fallen on you in sleep You are many, they are few.” – Shelley.