Watch: “My Penguin Friend” addresses healing and love

June 27, 2024

A Brazilian fisherman (Jean Reno) befriends a penguin in “My Penguin Friend.” Photo courtesy of Roadside Attractions
Joao (Jean Reno) saves a penguin from an oil spill. Photo courtesy of Roadside Attractions
Adriana Barraza and Jean Reno star in My Penguin Friend. Photo courtesy of Roadside Attractions
Alexia Moyano stars in My Penguin Friend. Photo courtesy of Roadside Attractions
“My Penguin Friend” is based on a true story. Photo courtesy of Roadside Attractions

June 27 (UPI) – Roadside Attractions released a 3-minute behind-the-scenes featurette for My penguin friend on Thursday. The film will be released in theaters on August 16th.

The film tells the true story of Joao (Jean Reno), a Brazilian fisherman who rescues a penguin covered in oil. The penguin visits Joao every year from then on.

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Joao mourns an unspecified loss and Reno says the film shows how closely connected all species are.

“You talk about the relationship with humans and animals,” Reno said, adding that the film’s message is about “how you try to preserve our planet through this story.”

Adriana Barraza co-stars with Reno. Barraza said the cast and crew discussed the film’s themes during filming.

“We’re not just going to talk about Mother Nature,” Barraza said. “We’re going to talk about topics like ‘take care of your heart, take care of your relationships, take care of your family.'”

Directed by David Schurmann My penguin friend in Brazil and Argentina said the story of animals says a lot about humanity.

“A little penguin actually shows us how we can become more human,” said Schuman.