Film No. 27. THE PENGUIN LESSONS. (2025). 7th April.

 

Film No. 27 (2025) April 7th.  6.30 PM  LUNA WINDSOR, Cinema 1, Nedlands.

"I rescued him from an oil slick. Now he thinks I'm his friend, but he's not my friend" (Tom tries to explain why "Penguin" stands looking at him lovingly at a beachside cafe).

"NOMINEE: Most Anticipated (Peter Cattaneo) The Critics Choice Awards (UK).

Do we forget what an accomplished actor Steve Coogan (Tom Michell) is? No, I doubt it, considering he's been nominated on multiple occasions for performance roles. His irreverent comic timing here will attract a crowd. 

For a film that deals with serious issues such as bullying, oppression, kidnapping and pollution, THE PENGUIN LESSONS' (LESSONS) light, saccharine style is a risk, but director Peter Cartanio may well have created for himself another "FULL MONTY" success. Don't get me wrong, LESSONS has gaping "holes" but Coogan's comic timing, a lovable penguin, and easy to like side characters, will see the film win an audience. But the fact that this story begins in 1976 and Coogan's Michell observes, then befriends locals who are kidnapped and beaten shouldn't be ignored. His lack of emotion towards his "friends" didn't match the films tone for me. Whenever themes get serious in LESSONS, the Penguin would waddle in and demand a fish meal! It's a unique tone.

Based on a true story; the real Tom Michell (author) obviously gave a big tick to the many licences taken in telling this chapter in his life. A 50 something Coogan playing a 20 something Michell (his age back in 1976) is also a bit of a  stretch! Despite it's holes, LESSONS works.  8GUMS.