My Penguin Friend
My Penguin Friend
Stars: Jean Reno and Adriana Barraza
Director: David Schurmann
Scriptwriters: Paulina Lagudi Ulrich and Kristan Lazarian
Composer: Fernando Velazquez
Cinematography: Anthony Dod Mantle
City Hill Arts and Roadside Attractions
Rating: PG (be aware of emotional moments)
Running Length: 98 Minutes
Who would have thought that a penguin would make national headlines. Of course, “The Penguin” from “Batman” fame comes to mind, but that was years ago. Now, we have a real, live penguin and the bird’s story to tell. The comedy is about a bird who falls in love with a human and a friendship for life begins.
“My Penguin Friend” is a true story about a Brazilian fisherman, Joao Pereira de Souza (played by Jean Reno) who lives with his wife, Maria (Adriana Barraza). The photography by Anthony Dod Mantle is quite good and composer Fernando Velazquez’s soundtrack goes right with the seaside live style
This true story begins with the death of Joao’s and Maria’s son. Joao is suffering the loss years later, while Maria is stoic. Then, Joao finds a small penguin on the beach. The poor bird is covered with oil, and Joao feels sorry for it, so takes it home to clean off the oil. Much to the consternation of his wife, who keeps a tidy house. The story has three characters then, Joao, who has a fondness for the little bird, Maria who is reluctant and expresses herself so, and the bird, who is now named Din Dim. So, for animal lovers in the audience, there really are other people in the film besides the bird. The bird follows Joao everywhere and begins getting attention. It is gaining in health and has a comedic touch all its own. There is a village nearby, and soon the villagers come to see the penguin who ends up with his own fan club. However, there are oceanic researchers who hear about Din Dim, who is now famous. Always a fly in the ointment.
What is unexpected, is that the little bird does not live near Joao all the time. It migrates each year over 5000 miles to and from Patagonia (you read that right) with its own GPS brain. How’s that, auto-makers, and you can’t get it right? This has been going on for years, with Din Dim This gives the word “love” new meaning.
“My Penguin Friend” does give the audience a perspective on ocean life and how creatures manage to survive what humans do to water. Acting is well done, and Jean Reno never gives a dull performance. Adriana Barraza shows presence as the wife who can’t understand the love for a bird. Composer: Fernando Velazquez gives vitality to the sea with background music and Anthony Dod Mantle’s cinematography is beautifully done. This film stands out for compassion and thoughtfulness.
Four Tocks
Copyright 2024 Marie Asner
