Film Independent Members, you and a guest are invited to join us for a theatrical screening of The Penguin Lessons, followed by an in-person conversation with director Peter Cattaneo.

Starring Oscar nominee Steve Coogan, The Penguin Lessons is a poignant dramedy inspired by a true story, set against the backdrop of Argentina’s political turmoil in 1976. Tom (Coogan), a disillusioned Englishman, arrives in Buenos Aires to teach at a prestigious boarding school, expecting an easy experience. But as the city spirals into crisis, and his students remain unteachable, Tom’s life takes an unexpected turn when he rescues an oil-slicked penguin from a nearby beach. The bird’s surprising loyalty and unique presence forces Tom to confront his own repressed past and awaken to the responsibilities of both personal and political change. Directed by Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty, Military Wives), this heartwarming film shows how even the most unlikely connections can spark profound change and self-discovery.

The film was an official selection of the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, the 2025 Palm Springs International Film Festival, and the 2025 Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

From Sony Pictures Classics, The Penguin Lessons will be released in theaters on March 28.

 
2025, 110 minutes, color | Written by Jeff Pope | Directed by Peter Cattaneo | Featuring Steve Coogan, Jonathan Pryce, Vivian El Jaber, Björn Gustafsson, Alfonsina Carrocio | Produced by Ben Pugh, Rory Aitken, Andy Noble, Adrian Guerra, Robert Walak | Executive Produced by Peter Cattaneo, Jeff Pope, Steve Coogan, Josh Varney, Joshua Horsfield, Richard Mansell, Orlando Wood, Tom Michell
 

Registration Information

Film Lover Members are guaranteed access to, and receive priority entry at this event. Arts Circle Members are guaranteed access, and receive both priority entry and reserved seating. Email membership@filmindependent.org for more.

All Film Independent Members can register for this event starting at 5:00 pm on Friday, March 7. | Registration is free; one registration per Membership. | Proof of Member status is required to complete registration.
 

Tickets/Parking

On the day of the event, registered Members may pick up tickets as early as 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time – look for Film Independent signage. Tickets are nontransferable and for general, unreserved theater seating only (except for Arts Circle Members). Attendees must be in their seat(s) at least 15 minutes prior to the advertised start time or seat(s) may be released. Entry/seating will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may not enter the venue without the Member who registered them present. Registration does not guarantee entry, even with a ticket in hand.

Masks are optional. This is subject to change as we continue to monitor public health guidance.

The first three hours of parking are free with validation from AMC.
 

Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at accessibility@filmindependent.org or 323 556 9305.
 

Screening Policies

Availability window and registration capacity may vary; always register as early as possible. Limit one registration per Membership, per event.

Members are required to follow all rules and guidelines as laid out by Film Independent and/or its partners. If a guest has been registered for an event by a Member, these policies shall apply to that guest. Violation of policies may result in suspension or termination of Membership.

Event details and guest participation are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.