• MOVIE REVIEW BY JACK WATSON

Director: Peter Cattaneo

Starring: Steve Coogan and Jonathan Pryce

Genre: Comedy-drama

Rating: 3.5 stars

The Penguin Lessons is a movie with a concept so silly you’d assume it wasn’t based on a true story.

It combines Mr. Popper’s Penguins and Dead Poets Society, but surprisingly, the Mr. Popper’s Penguins aspect is easily my favourite.

Humans are naturally emotionally connected to animals and Juan Salvador is no exception.

Juan never becomes a nuisance to Tom, which only adds to the charm of the pair’s relationship.

Penguins are naturally cute animals, so when paired with Tom’s pessimistic attitude towards the world, it only adds to that likability.

The Dead Poets Society aspect is my least favourite part.

I love the unconventional teachings and the bond everyone forms with Juan Salvador, but unfortunately, the kids aren’t fleshed out that much and are like plot devices rather than characters.

The film is also quite funny. It uses dry and physical comedy to help bring levity to fascist Argentina.

The film looks great with muted colours paired with South American architecture mixed with the very wide camera lenses and unchaotic backdrops, making for stunning cinematography.

Be prepared to laugh and cry at a delightful, feel-good movie.

• Jack Watson saw The Penguin Lessons at Monterey Howick.