Upcoming movie My Penguin Friend (2024): Story, plot and cast

Genre: Drama, Family

Runtime: 1h 37m

Release Date: August 16, 2024

Director: David Schurmann

Writers: Kristen Lazarian, Paulina Lagudi Ulrich

Language: English

Countries of Origin: Brazil, United States

Production Companies: City Hill Arts, Content Studios, Schurmann Filmes

Filming Locations: Ubatuba, São Paulo, Brazil

Story
My Penguin Friend is a delightful journey that chronicles the journey of a lost penguin rescued from an oil spill, and it is inspired by an incredible true story. This amazing penguin makes the acquaintance of a broken-hearted Brazilian fisherman named Joao (Jean Reno), whose life is irrevocably altered by this unplanned friendship. The penguin and Joao develop a close relationship as they support one another through life’s obstacles and the healing of old wounds. Their bond deepens to the point where the vast ocean cannot separate them.

Plot Summary

Joao is a fisherman in the seaside town of Ubatuba who lives alone. He struggles with the monotony of his routine and the pain of losing his family. His life drastically changes when he comes upon an oil-covered penguin that is abandoned on the shore. Joao is hesitant at first, but he chooses to take care of the penguin, naming him Oscar. Joao and Oscar develop a special and enduring friendship as he heals Oscar.

Joao’s life takes on a new purpose and sense of happiness when Oscar arrives. Joao finds solace in the penguin’s steadfast friendship and playful antics as they help him face his loss and rediscover his humanity. But as Oscar gets stronger, it will be difficult for him to go back to his natural environment. Joao is faced with the difficult choice of letting go of Oscar for his own benefit, and he must accept the possibility of losing his friend.

Cast

Jean Reno as João, the heartbroken fisherman

Adriana Barraza as Maria, João’s supportive friend

Rochi Hernández as Stephanie, a local who helps with the rescue

Nicolás Francella as Carlos, João’s neighbor

Alexia Moyano as Adriana, a villager

Ellen C. Camp as Young Villager

Pedro Urizzi as Young João

Pedro Caetano as Young Oscar

Amanda Magalhães as Young Maria

Ravel Cabral as Paulo

Wilson Rabelo as Marcos

Juan José Garnica as Miguel

Maurício Xavier as Oscar

Duda Galvão as Lucia

Roberto Borenstein as Luis

Thalma de Freitas as Calista

Juan Queiroz as Pedro

Fernando Lufer as Young Marcos