Penguin Bloom 2021

During a family getaway in Thailand, Sam Bloom faces a life-altering incident when she accidentally tumbles from a high balcony, resulting in a fractured T6 thoracic vertebra and partial paralysis. Upon returning to her home in Australia, the once avid surfer struggles to adapt to her new life in a wheelchair. Thankfully, she is supported by her husband Cameron Bloom, their three sons, Noah, Rueben, and Oli, alongside her overprotective mother Jan.

One day, the boys discover an injured magpie chick, whom they name Penguin, and bring it home. While Sam initially feels too defeated to nurture the little bird, she soon realizes its significance to Noah. Over time, an emotional bond blossoms between Sam and Penguin. Burdened by guilt, Noah has distanced himself from Sam since the accident, feeling responsible for urging her to climb that balcony in Thailand. Meanwhile, the dynamic between Sam and Cameron also weakens as she struggles with her identity, longing for a past she can no longer inhabit. She explicitly requests that he refrain from asking how she feels.

Weeks later, Penguin fully recovers and learns to fly, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration for Sam, who decides to try kayaking lessons for herself. On her birthday, the Blooms are gathered for a family dinner at Jan’s house, joined by Sam’s sister Kylie and her kayaking instructor, Gaye. During the meal, tensions rise between Jan and Cameron as they debate their responsibilities towards Sam’s new life. When Penguin is suddenly attacked by two larger birds and escapes, it’s a pivotal moment for everyone.

Ultimately, Sam has a heartfelt confrontation with Noah, reassuring him that he isn’t at fault for her condition. She apologizes for her previous coldness and embraces her newfound strength, leading to a much-needed reconciliation within the family. When she asks Cameron to check in on her feelings, her response of “I’m better” encapsulates her journey toward healing.

Just a few days later, Penguin returns home, and Sam expresses her gratitude to the bird for playing a crucial role in her recovery.