The movie “Happy Feet” is the child of writer George Miller. This animated film is geared toward younger audiences but it sure to please viewers of any age. This epic love tale focuses on the lone penguin that cannot sing and, as such, is different from all the other penguins. Without a special song to lure a mate, this penguin must find another way to stand out in the crowd. In its most simple form, “Happy Feet” teaches acceptance and understanding.
Miller recalls several points of inspiration for this groundbreaking film. He recalls sitting in a bar while filming “Mad Max 2″ and meeting a cameraman who identified his father as having participated in the Shackleton expeditions. His father was Frank Hurley. The cameraman would continue his story by suggesting that Miller write a story about Antarctica. Miller recalls Hurley’s suggestion as based on the simple, stunning beauty of the vast weather and the isolation of Antarctica. Having been attracted to a documentary on the region, Miller knew that his next writing adventure would focus on life in such desolate conditions.
Miller did not originally intend to write a musical. His intention was, rather, to write an amazing story about the life of penguins. This story would include the difficulties faced in the harshest of climates, where the penguin must find a mate for the success of their species’ survival. Focusing on the Emperor Penguin, Miller began to ponder the difficulties of life for a member of this population who simply couldn’t produce a heartsong worthy of attracting a mate.
Recalling Miller’s thrive to inspire awe through a story line, it is obvious that this penguin would have to overcome great challenges to realize that he is special even though he lacks the one talent that makes everyone else popular. Miller’s story follows this young penguin as he travels the planet in search of the place where he fits in. The moment of truth reveals the penguin’s return to his home and his pride in his unusual talent. This ultimately pays off and the penguin is accepted for who he is and not what he should be.