By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
If you think you've seen every heartwarming animal story on screen, think again.
"My Penguin Friend," directed by
David Schurmann (TV's "Inside Guide: Exploring Kiwi Success in Brazil"), takes you on an unexpected journey with an adorable Magellanic penguin that's sure to warm even the coldest of hearts.
Unlike the usual tales of loyal dogs, mischievous cats, or clever monkeys, this film-- which is based on a true story that took place in 2011--offers something refreshingly different: an unlikely friendship between a seasoned fisherman and a penguin he rescues from an oil spill off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Sound like a corny, boring flick? It's anything but.
Jean Reno ("Die Hart," "Lift") delivers an outstanding performance as retired fisherman Joao Pereira De Souza. Reno brings depth and nuance to a role that could have easily veered into the realm of cliches. Plus, the movie is far from the predictable or overly sentimental fare you might expect. Thanks to the sharp and heartfelt script by
Kristen Lazarian ("Trust") and
Paulina Lagudi Ulrich ("Mail Order Monster"), "My Penguin Friend" is a beautifully crafted story that is both uplifting and inspiring.
Joao and his wife Maria (Adriana Barraza, "Blue Beetle") haven't been the same since the tragic death of their young son Miguel (Juan Jose Garnica, TV's "Leandro Diaz"). They've become closer, but clearly there is a void in their lives.
One day, while out with his team of fishermen, Joao notices a penguin struggling in the water. He gently scoops up the exhausted bird, wraps it in a blanket, and brings it home, much to Maria's surprise—especially when she sees the oil mess all over the house.
As Joao tenderly cleans the little creature, he assures Maria that the penguin needs to rest before returning to the ocean. One week turns into two, then three, as a remarkable friendship begins to blossom. Joao soon discovers that this penguin is no ordinary bird; it possesses an intelligence and resilience that defy its small, flightless frame. Together, they navigate the challenges of rehabilitation, forming a bond that transcends species.
When a young girl named Lucia (Duda Galvao, "Sana Que Sana") meets the penguin, she's instantly enchanted and names him DinDim. The entire village soon becomes captivated by the charming creature, who appears to embrace his newfound surroundings. As Joao fights to save his feathery friend, he faces skepticism from the community. Some dismiss their connection as mere sentimentality, while others question the wisdom of investing time and resources in a single penguin.
When Joao finally releases DinDim back into the ocean, he doesn't expect to see him again. But a few months later, Joao is astonished when DinDim returns, seeking more fish and companionship. Incredibly, this cycle repeats for eight straight years, with DinDim swimming 3,000 miles each time to reunite with Joao.
As their story spreads, Joao and Maria find themselves thrust into the national spotlight, receiving more attention than they ever imagined.
What makes "My Penguin Friend" such a delight—beyond its striking visuals and cinematography, courtesy of Oscar-winner Anthony Dod Mantle (Slumdog Millionaire, The Last King of Scotland)—is the filmmakers' clever decision to occasionally tell the story through DinDim's perspective. This unique approach adds a fresh and endearing touch.
Moreover, the use of real penguins instead of cheesy animatronics adds authenticity to the film. At least 10 penguins from Brazil's Ubatuba Aquarium portrayed DinDim, with one named Maui stealing the spotlight as the lead star.
The movie concludes with a touching glimpse of the real Joao Pereira de Souza and DinDim, reminding us that this remarkable story is grounded in reality.
"My Penguin Friend" is a beautiful testament to the extraordinary friendships that can emerge from the most unlikely of encounters.
Editor's Note: Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays now at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Look At This Trailer For
"MY PENGUIN FRIEND"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards.
