Jonathan Pryce accompanies Steve Coogan in “The Penguin Lessons” by Peter Cattaneo & 42; Filming will be completed in Spain with Lionsgate UK on board

EXCLUSIVE: Oscar-nominated Jonathan Pryce (The two pause) stars in a feature film alongside two-time Oscar nominee Steve Coogan The penguin lessonwhich was recently packaged in Spain.

Lionsgate UK recently brought the film on board as distributor. Two-time Oscar nominee Peter Cattaneo (The Complete Monty) director for LA and the London management and production company he works with, 42 military wives.

Vivian El Jaber, Bjorn Gustafsson, Alfonsina Carrocio, Micaela Breque, Tomas Pozzi and Ramiro Blas round out the cast.

Based on the successful book of the same name by Tom Michell, the film tells the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who started working at a school in Argentina in 1976. He expected a smooth ride and instead discovered a complicated and divided nation – and a class of virtually unteachable boys. But when he finds a little penguin washed up on an oil-stained beach, his life is turned upside down – and the penguin becomes not only a valued friend, but also a teacher to everyone he meets.

42’s Rory Aitken and Ben Pugh are producing, while Intake Films and Rolling Dice will finance the film with Aperture Media Partners. In addition to Robert Walak, Nostromo’s Adrián Guerra and Andy Noble will also produce.

Joshua Horsfield and Nia Vazirani of Intake Films for Rolling Dice will serve as executive producers along with Jeff Pope, who wrote the script, Josh Varney, Tom Michell and Coogan.

Rocket Science is handling international distribution of the feature film, while CAA Media Finance represents US rights.

game of thrones And The crown Star Pryce recently played in Apples Slow horses.

Rory Aitken and Ben Pugh, 42, said: “We are delighted that legend Jonathan Pryce is joining us to bring this beautiful story to life, with the brilliant lead performance of Steve Coogan and supported by a penguin. “We are delighted to be with our partners Intake Films, Rolling Dice and Nostromo and that Lionsgate will distribute this film in the UK.”

Lionsgate’s Marie-Claire Benson added: “We’re sure British audiences will be thrilled and excited by this heartwarming story of a man who befriends a penguin.” Jonathan Pryce was an excellent choice to direct the cast and we look forward to working with 42 and Nostromo Pictures as we plan to bring it to UK cinemas.”

Pryce is represented by Julian Belfrage Associates and Anonymous Content.