A penguin’s tale amidst Argentina’s turmoil
A unique backdrop for an unexpected bond
Argentina’s 1976 military coup d’état, a period marked by violence and forced disappearances, might not seem like the ideal setting for a heartwarming story of human-animal bonding. Yet, this is precisely the backdrop for Tom Michell’s memoir, “The Penguin Lessons.” Michell, an English teacher at an elite Buenos Aires private school, found himself navigating the chaos of the country while figuring out what to do with a Magellan penguin he had accidentally adopted during a weekend trip to Uruguay. The 2016 memoir, a delightful read that appeals to both adults and younger audiences, has now been adapted into a film by Peter Cattaneo, capturing the whimsical essence of the book while adding a touch of political depth.
A shift in narrative tone
In the memoir, Michell was in his twenties during the events described. However, the film adaptation, penned by screenwriter Jeff Pope, reimagines Michell as a character played by 58-year-old Steve Coogan. This change introduces a more melancholic tone to the narrative, providing a backstory that explains why an Englishman of that age might be adrift in South America. Coogan’s portrayal, infused with his signature deadpan irony, adds a layer of depth to the character, while Cattaneo balances broad comedic moments with a gentle dose of pathos.
The curious tonal split
From the outset, the film presents a curious tonal split. Coogan’s Michell, dressed in the quintessential Seventies teacher attire, arrives at his new job to find workmen painting over graffiti on the school’s walls. The distant sounds of gunfire and explosions serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing turmoil, yet Michell’s primary concern is a spot of paint on his shoe. The headmaster, played by Jonathan Pryce, emphasizes the importance of staying apolitical, a stance that the film gently mocks without becoming overtly revolutionary.
Settling into a new life
As Michell settles into his new role, mild comedy ensues. He struggles to connect with his unruly students, reluctantly takes on the role of a rugby coach, and forms a prickly bond with his Finnish colleague, Michel. The political context is subtly woven into the narrative through the school’s caretaker, Maria, and her granddaughter, Sofia, who are more directly affected by the Dirty War. When the coup occurs, it serves as a backdrop for Michell’s brief escape to Uruguay, where he rescues a penguin from an oil slick in an attempt to impress a one-night stand.
The penguin’s impact
Michell’s intention is to clean the bird, named Juan Salvador, and return it to its natural habitat. However, Juan Salvador refuses to leave Michell’s side, leading to a series of amusing escapades as Michell tries to hide his new pet from border guards and school authorities. The penguin’s presence soon transforms Michell’s classroom, inspiring a “Dead Poets Society”-style turnaround as he incorporates anti-war poetry into his lessons, captivating his students. Juan Salvador’s charm is so compelling that viewers are willing to believe in his transformative power.
Balancing humor and tragedy
While the film excels in its humorous moments, it struggles with its more tragic elements. Sofia’s kidnapping by the military junta is a severe incident that feels out of place as a secondary plotline. Coogan’s portrayal of Michell’s deeper grief is less convincing, and the film’s reluctance to depict the coup’s violent consequences diminishes the stakes of Michell’s eventual political intervention. Despite these shortcomings, “The Penguin Lessons” manages to hold the audience’s attention, thanks to the endearing presence of Juan Salvador.
A charming yet grounded tale
“The Penguin Lessons” is a film that, much like its avian star, doesn’t aim to soar but rather to charm and engage. It offers a unique blend of humor and pathos, set against a backdrop of historical turmoil. For those willing to overlook its tonal inconsistencies and focus on the heartwarming bond between Michell and Juan Salvador, the film provides a delightful and thought-provoking experience.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit The Penguin Lessons.