Canada
USA
Japan
15/31
Directed by Peter Cattaneo, this thrilling drama, starring Oscar nominee Steve Coogan, tells the story of an Englishman’s personal and political awakening after his cataclysmic adoption of a penguin in Argentine history. «I used to be young and idealistic,» says Tom, a new teacher in 1976. at a boarding school in Buenos Aires, Argentina, «but I soon realized that the reality was different.» Blunt, hedonistic and unsentimental, Tom is unmoved by tales of woe or facts. He makes excuses for his shortcomings and inactivity. Nevertheless, when penguins covered in industrial oil wash up on the beach and fascists seize power in a coup, Tom is in for a deep awakening, despite himself. Steve Coogan (Tom) and Jonathan Pryce star in this true story of wit, warmth and conflicted feelings. discoveries, humor, drama and cute penguin antics. The dialogue, characters, story arc and acting are really deep. «Penguin Lessons» was filmed in Spain with Argentine actors. Many of the actors lived through the recent dictatorship in Argentina and they add authenticity to the story. At the world premiere of the film at the Toronto International Film Festival, I was deeply moved by the realization that just one person or a penguin could make a big world in the face of such evil and tragedy. Rise up like lions after that. slumber In unconquerable numbers Shake your chains to the ground like the dew That falls on you in your sleep You are many, they are few., – Shelley.
