According to Variety, Netflix has successfully acquired the North American distribution rights to the upcoming film adaptation of Penguin Bloom, based on Bradley Trevor Greive and Cameron Bloom’s best-selling novel of the same name. The streamer is planning to release the film on January 27, 2021, in the U.S. as well as in the U.K., France, and some select countries in Asia. Starring Oscar nominee Naomi Watts and The Walking Dead alum Andrew Lincoln, the film had its world premiere back in September at the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival.
“We all fell in love with the life-affirming nature of Sam’s story and her undeniable spirit. The emotional journey she and her family go on after Penguin enters their lives is unforgettable. We have a wonderful partner in Netflix and we’re delighted they will be bringing ‘Penguin Bloom’ to audiences around the world,” the producers said in a joint statement.
RELATED: The Adam Project: Filming Begins on Ryan Reynolds’ New Netflix Film
Based on the real-life story of Samantha Bloom, the film centers around an active and vibrant Australian mom who is paralyzed from the chest down on holiday with her family. Her struggle to forge ahead is helped along by a wounded baby magpie her kids take in, named Penguin. As they nurse Penguin back to health, the incredible joy, playfulness, and strength she exudes fortify the family and especially lift Sam’s spirits. Penguin’s resilience demonstrates that, however bleak things may seem, compassion, friendship, and support can come from unexpected places ensuring there will always be better days ahead.
Pick up a copy of the book here!
Penguin Bloom stars Naomi Watts (Mulholland Drive, Impossible), Andrew Lincoln (Love Actually, The Walking Dead), Jacki Weaver (Animal Kingdom), Rachel House (Moana, Thor: Ragnarok), and Leeanna Walsman (Star Wars: Attack of the Clones). It will also feature Lisa Hensley, Griffin Murray-Johnston, Felix Cameron, and Abe Clifford-Barr.
RELATED: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Skydance Spy Series Acquired by Netflix
Penguin Bloom is directed by Glendyn Ivin from a screenplay adapted by Shaun Grant and Harry Cripps. The film is produced by Watts and Emma Cooper through their Jam Tart Films banner along with Made Up Stories’ Bruna Papandrea, Steve Hutensky, and Jodi Matterson. It is executive produced by Sam and Cameron Bloom along with Sonia Amoroso, George Kekeli, Meryl Metni, Ricci Swart, Greive, Joel Pearlman, Edwina Waddy, and Jill Bilcock.
