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Penguin Bloom (2021)

2021 • 1h 35m • Drama • PG-13
On September 24, 2026
#9898▼ 947
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All reviews

Steve Parker on Penguin Bloom

· Jan 24, 2021

This is a charming film geared toward families, featuring a simple but encouraging narrative. It draws from the real-life experiences of Sam Bloom, who suffered paralysis below her chest after falling from a roof in Italy while on vacation with her family. Naomi Watts, as Sam, lends her acting skills to the portrayal, alongside the trainers responsible for the ten magpies featured in the film. She effectively conveys both the physical and emotional challenges of living with paralysis, and there are some deeply affecting moments showing her struggles alongside her husband and children. The child actors feel genuine, particularly the one who introduces Penguin into their household. The cinematography is gorgeous, and the magpie playing Penguin truly shines; they captivate whenever they appear. My main reservation about PENGUIN BLOOM concerns its lack of detail regarding Sam Bloom’s history and current circumstances, which are only briefly touched upon at the film's conclusion. Although I consider it a family movie, certain themes might be complex for very young children, so parents may want to preview it before showing it to their kids. PENGUIN BLOOM, adapted from the book of the same name, feels like a traditional motion picture and manages to sidestep excessive sentimentality. It's truly enjoyable.

Source on TMDB