The Penguin Lessons provides a pleasant viewing experience. Steve Coogan and a penguin seem like a winning combination, and the film certainly meets that expectation; I believe any movie featuring an adorable little penguin will be hard to resist. The scenes involving the penguin are charming, and much of what Coogan does is genuinely funny. The story itself is quite captivating, rooted in a remarkable real-life occurrence. Setting it against the backdrop of 1970s Argentina gives it a distinctive feel, preventing it from being solely reliant on its cute animal element. Even when the film tackles more serious themes—I’m still taken aback by that particularly emotional moment—it remains entertaining. Steve Coogan was an inspired choice for the lead role, although I can also strangely imagine Rowan Atkinson and another person whose name escapes me (seriously) in the part. While I am familiar with Steve Coogan and generally enjoy his work, outside of 'Night at the Museum' I often forget about him—not this time around. Vivian El Jaber delivers a commendable performance as well, as does Alfonsina Carrocio. Jonathan Pryce is excellent casting as the headmaster; that initial scene with him is particularly good. Björn Gustafsson also contributes solid work, though in a smaller role. The child actors are acceptable, all things considered.

Source on TMDB