The Penguin Lessons

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The Penguin Lessons

PG-13

Released Mar 28

1h 50m

Comedy

Drama

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Popcornmeter

78%

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119 Reviews

94%

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100+ Verified Ratings

Inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who went 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.

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Critics Consensus

The Penguin Lessons is appealing even if it curiously elides some disturbing geopolitical history, and is elevated by a winning performance from Steve Coogan with a little help from a lovable pint-sized companion.

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Kevin Maher

Times (UK)

Yes, it’s ostensibly sweet and inoffensive. But it’s so inoffensive that it’s almost, well, offensive.

Rated: 2/5

Apr 28, 2025

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Tim Robey

Daily Telegraph (UK)

Peter Cattaneo...is normally a surer hand with shading, but the script by Coogan’s regular collaborator Jeff Pope...also keeps defaulting to penguin lols – it waddles, it’s cute, repeat – rather than giving the ensemble much to do.

Rated: 2/5

Apr 22, 2025

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Wendy Ide

Observer (UK)

Adapted from Tom Michell’s autobiographical book, The Penguin Lessons counters the inspirational teacher cliches with a bumbling charm that’s boosted considerably by a first-rate performance from the scene-stealing penguin.

Rated: 3/5

Apr 21, 2025

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Lael Loewenstein

FilmWeek (LAist)

In trying to be all things to all audiences, it became not enough to any of them.

May 13, 2025

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Manuel Betancourt

FilmWeek (LAist)

Coogan is fantastic, as always, but he could not make this work.

May 13, 2025

Full Review

Sean P. Means

The Movie Cricket

Just think of any movie you’ve ever seen about a teacher, from “Dead Poets Society” to “Dangerous Minds” — and add a penguin.

Rated: 2/4

May 10, 2025

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merav

Loved it and the fact that’s it is based on a true story makes it even better.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/15/25

Full Review

James J. O

It was a charming, subtly funny film for all ages.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

05/12/25

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Michael Deeee

A first rate, touching tale of personal growth and kindness.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

05/12/25

Full Review

Kristy M

Loved this heartfelt, character driven movie! Two thumbs up!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/27/25

Full Review

Rodrigo

Really good movie, lots of messages in a very entertaining movie good for all family

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

04/26/25

Full Review

Lbtrek

A curmudgeon rescues a cute animal to impress his date. but the animal would not leave him. Even if you just like this type of story go see The Penguin Lessons. I Loved it, Not really a disney movie so defintely PG rating.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/23/25

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Peter Cattaneo

Director

Micaela Breque

Actor

Tomás Pozzi

Actor

Ramiro Blas

Actor

Steve Coogan

Tom Michel

Björn Gustafsson

Actor

The Penguin Lessons: Teaser Trailer

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The Penguin Lessons: Trailer 1

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Synopsis

Inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who went 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.

Director: Peter Cattaneo
Producer: Rory Aitken, Ben Pugh, Robert Walak, Adrián Guerra, Andrew Noble
Screenwriter: Jeff Pope
Distributor: Sony Pictures Classics
Production Co: 42, Nostromo Pictures
Rating: PG-13 (Thematic Elements|Strong Language|Some Sexual References)
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Mar 28, 2025, Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 29, 2025
Box Office (Gross USA): $3.1M
Runtime: 1h 50m
Aspect Ratio: Flat (1.85:1)

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