TIFF 2024: The Penguin Lessons (Coming Soon Movie Trailer)
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Interview Video: TIFF 2024 – “The Penguin Lessons” with Sir Jonathan Pryce
Peter Cattaneo’s latest film, The Penguin Lessons, makes its world premiere at TIFF 2024, bringing a blend of humor, warmth, and political insight to the big screen. With a standout performance by Oscar nominee Steve Coogan, this dramedy promises to charm and challenge audiences in equal measure.
The Story
Set against the backdrop of 1976 Argentina, a country in the throes of political upheaval, The Penguin Lessons follows Tom (played by Steve Coogan), an English teacher who finds himself in a whirlwind of personal and political change. Tom, who starts his tenure at an exclusive boarding school, is initially more concerned with avoiding the chaos around him than engaging with it.
However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he rescues a penguin coated in oil from a beach in Uruguay. This seemingly inconsequential act of kindness leads to an unexpected bond with the penguin, which Tom names and sneaks back to Argentina. The penguin’s arrival becomes a catalyst for Tom’s transformation, leading him to confront his own values and ultimately inspiring change within the school and his own life.
What Makes It Special
- A Unique Blend of Humor and Drama: Peter Cattaneo, known for his work on The Full Monty and Military Wives, brings his knack for blending comedy with heartfelt drama to The Penguin Lessons. The film combines the political tension of 1970s Argentina with the charming, often hilarious antics of a penguin who becomes an unlikely hero.
- Steve Coogan’s Masterful Performance: Coogan delivers a nuanced performance as Tom, showcasing his trademark dry wit while exploring deeper emotional currents. His interactions with the penguin add a layer of authenticity and humor that enriches the story.
- Penguin Co-Stars: The film features real penguins, not CGI creations, adding a refreshing touch of reality to the story. Coogan’s commitment to working closely with the penguins, even spending time getting to know them before filming, results in some genuine and unscripted moments that enhance the film’s charm.
- Political and Personal Awakening: While the penguin provides a whimsical element, the film does not shy away from the political context of Argentina during the dictatorship. Tom’s journey from a detached outsider to an active participant in his students’ moral awakening mirrors the broader societal shifts occurring around him.
- Visual and Emotional Appeal: Cattaneo’s direction ensures that the film’s setting—both the vibrant landscapes of Argentina and the contrasting opulence of the boarding school—serves as a rich backdrop for Tom’s personal transformation and the evolving dynamics between characters.
Screening Information
Catch The Penguin Lessons at TIFF 2024 on these dates:
- Friday, September 6
Roy Thomson Hall
1:30 PM - Saturday, September 7
TIFF Lightbox
Press & Industry Screening – 8:45 AM - Saturday, September 7
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
General Screening – 7:30 PM - Wednesday, September 11
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Press & Industry Screening – 8:30 AM
Final Thoughts
The Penguin Lessons stands out as a film that combines humor with heartfelt drama, set against a tumultuous historical backdrop. Peter Cattaneo’s direction, coupled with Steve Coogan’s engaging performance and the unexpected charm of a penguin co-star, creates a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. As the penguin teaches Tom—and us—a lesson in empathy and change, The Penguin Lessons reminds us of the power of small acts of kindness in the face of larger societal challenges. Don’t miss this delightful and impactful film at TIFF 2024.
