Rose Dunton

Rose Dunton

Equally informative and adorable, Disneynature’s “Penguins” is an impressive peek into the annual journey of the Adélie penguins. Narrated by Ed Helms (“The Office”), the documentary is light on the science but more than makes up for it with its focus on the cute (and often silly) behaviors and “customs” of the Adélie penguins, making it near impossible to not grin from ear to ear. Filled with penguin pratfalls, waddles, swims and slides, “Penguins” is a feel-good, educational penguin story aided with breathtaking cinematography.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Adélie penguins trek across the cold, unforgiving Antarctic landscape to the place they were born, hoping to build a nest, find a life partner and raise chicks before the end of the warm season. One penguin, Steve, is a little late to the party and isn’t quite sure how ready for fatherhood he actually is. At 5 years old, this is his first journey where he hopes to actually find a partner. A coming-of-age story, “Penguins” highlights Steve’s quirky charm and the difficulties associated with raising a family in such a harsh environment with smooth dexterity in a manner certain to captivate viewers of all ages.

Similar to Disneynature’s “Bears” and “Monkey Kingdom” in formula, “Penguins” proves that it works: find one animal in specific, give it a voice and tell his personified story while simultaneously explaining the unique characteristics of their species and environment in a way that can almost make you forget you’re watching a documentary. Little filler is needed when it comes to telling Steve’s story, and the 1 hour, 16 minute runtime is a perfect length for learning about what summer in the Antarctic means for the Adélie penguins. Though Ed Helms’ narration is funny and serves to keep the kids entertained, it can at times feel like a distraction from the actual events occurring on screen. Visually, the film is astonishing in what it manages to capture, showing the vast landscapes, harsh weather conditions and almost unbelievable topography, as well as how exactly the Adélie penguins fit within their cold, windy world. The end credits scenes showing how they managed to capture much of their footage is a similarly brilliant addition.

Though “Penguins” is kid-friendly, G-rated does not mean it is without excitement. Rather, that G-rating means that Steve’s story is happy, a little silly and minimally upsetting — perfect for those who love animals, but don’t want to see them getting eaten, a la National Geographic.

Adorable, stunning, and funny, “Penguins” is a fantastic theater experience. While not groundbreaking, it is still a wondrous look into a world so different than our own. As majestic as it is charming, Steve the penguin’s story is memorable and heart-warming.

Grade: A

Rose Dunton, originally of Nampa, has been living in Pocatello for the past four years. Proficient in Japanese, she is an avid film buff.

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