Synopsis: A sweeping family adventure, My Penguin Friend is a triumphant tale of friendship between a lonely father and the little lost penguin DinDim who recharges his spirit and heals his family with an unshakable, ocean-crossing loyalty.
It doesn’t matter how technologically advanced we become, we always return to the beauty and wonderment of nature. Yeah, you have an iPhone 24 but have you stood next to a giant sequoia? Have you witnessed sunrise or sunset after hiking to the top of a ridge? Ever marveled at the Earth’s curvature while looking out into the ocean? What about experiencing a deer shedding its antlers or a bear awakening from slumber? If not, I’m sure you will. If you have, you probably took a picture because the winds whisper our names while the mountains reverberate every syllable as the trees entice us with dance. Even the most minimalistic outside avoidant persons tend to bring nature indoors like the rest of us in the form of plants or pets. We possess an innate and unspoken bond with animals and nature. Don’t forget to utilize it when you can.
“That old man is broken.”
There’s something special about a bond between a human and their pet, but when that connection extends itself to wild animals, it’s magical. Directed by David Schurmann, My Penguin Friend is a smile-inducing affair with an unfortunate identity crisis. Yes, the film has its issues. However, let’s be real, who can stay mad while watching penguin waddles? Inspired by a true story that went viral online, My Penguin Friend sets out to warm the heart, charm the soul, and replace whatever look you have on your face with a permanent grin. Subsequently, the film succeeds in doing those things, however, it doesn’t quite earn them. Like watching cute pet videos on the internet, the animals being themselves do most of the heavy lifting in a video’s success. The same can be said for this film.
Beginning with a heartbreaking tragedy that feels mostly forgotten as a multi-decade time jump takes place, the story quickly turns into a unique and unlikely buddy film. After saving the life of a young Magellanic penguin, João, a now elderly fisherman, finds comfort in his new grateful friend. As the blossoming new friendship begins to heal old wounds and the story begins to steer into its grief, it abandons it. What was becoming an uplifting tale about reclaiming happiness ultimately feels more like a nature documentary tied into an episode of Where Are They Now?. Ultimately, it becomes more about reliance and co-dependence than anything else. It results in a disjointed experience saved only by the cuteness of the penguin, Dindim.
“You’re a very odd little bird.”
Fortunately, the film is still enjoyable but could’ve been incredibly moving. It can still melt hearts with its slightly spiritual moments and overall tenderness. Nevertheless, even the most engrossed will notice the absence of what could’ve been. Its score fits well but with how the story unfolded, some of its cinematography felt out of place. To be specific, the first-person penguin cam was unnecessary. It could’ve worked nicely for the subplot it ditches. Despite its downfalls, My Penguin Friend is worth a watch if you’re an animal lover. Its rewatchability is low.
After managing to escape the persecution of predators, the dangers of fishing nets, plastics and oil spills that pollute the oceans, he loses his way and ends up on the Brazilian coast very weakened.
With his body covered in oil and badly injured, Dindim is saved by João, an old fisherman who lives in Ilha Grande. An unlikely friendship is born between a man and a penguin who, together, will discover the value of love, family and hope for a better future.
The live-action film will have the narrative told from the point of view of our penguin, Dindim, who reflects, draws conclusions and expresses his affection for the one who saved his life. This gripping story tells of life and death, brotherhood and friendship, and ultimately, how we are all connected as living creatures.
Connected by something bigger than us. (Foto: Fabio Braga/Pivô Audiovisual), Showrunner: ; Direção: David Schürmann | DIVULGAÇÃO.
Pace & Pop
The film’s pacing plays a singular note that resembles its tone. It lingers somewhere between relaxed and somber. What popped for me was the penguin, Dindim, of course. If you thought dog movies were cute, wait until you see the waddles at work.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Jean Reno, Adriana Barraza, Alexia Moyano, Nicolás Francella, Rochi Hernández, Ravel Cabral, Juan José Garnica, Duda Galvão
The cast was fine. Not many of them had an opportunity to shine. However, Jean Reno delivers an emotional performance. The star of the show is easily Dindim, played by a group of penguins. From the inimitable sounds they make to the waddles of an old man, it’s nothing short of adorable.
My Penguin Friend releases in theaters on August 16, 2024. Stay safe and make friends.
Rated: PG Runtime: 1h 37m Director:
My Penguin Friend is a smile-inducing affair with an unfortunate identity crisis. Yes, the film has its issues. However, let's be real, who can stay mad while watching penguin waddles?
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GVN Rating
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
