"The Penguin Lessons" tells an inspiring true story and is opening at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center March 28.
"Eephus," a baseball comedy, and "Every Little Thing," a documentary tribute to hummingbirds, are being held over through March 31 and April 1, respectively.
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, this heartwarming film shows how even the most unlikely connections can spark profound change and self-discovery.
"Eephus" follows two recreational baseball teams, the River Dogs and Adler’s Paint, who have been meeting on their New England field on Sunday afternoons for longer than anyone can remember. These middle-aged sportsmen can’t run as fast as they used to or connect as reliably with a pitch, but their vigorous appetite for socializing, squabbling and busting chops remains undiminished. After the know-nothing county board opts to raze the baseball diamond to make way for a school, the teams meet for one final game at their beloved Soldier’s Field, with girlfriends, kids and local hooligans as intermittent spectators. As day turns to night and innings bleed together, the players face the uncertainty of a new era.
"Eephus" is not rated.
Author and wildlife rehabber Terry Masear has an ambitious goal: to save every injured hummingbird in Los Angeles. But the path to survival is fraught with danger. "Every Little Thing" was a Sundance hit, introducing audiences to Masear’s diminutive patients through breathtaking slow-motion photography and emotional storytelling. Over the course of director Sally Aitken’s moving documentary, the audience becomes deeply invested in hummingbirds such as Cactus, Raisin, Jimmy and Wasabi, celebrating their tiny victories and lamenting their tragedies. Through Masear’s eyes, each bird becomes memorable, mighty and heroic. Her compassion and empathy serve as a reminder that grace can be found in the smallest of acts and the tiniest of creatures.
"Every Little Thing" is not rated.
For more information on films, including showtimes and ticket availability, visit the Ross website.
