Join us for a conversation with David Schurmann, director of the feature My Penguin Friend, which had its wide release in theaters this past summer. We will discuss directing a feature, particularly one with universal global appeal, and his journey to directing My Penguin Friend followed by its theatrical release (distributed by Roadside Attractions) and subsequent success.
David Schurmann
Director/Producer/Writer
About David Schurmann
David Schurmann is a respected filmmaker celebrated for his compelling storytelling in both fiction and documentary films. His work resonates with global audiences, weaving emotional depth into captivating narratives.
Schurmann’s film Little Secret, inspired by the true-life experiences of his adopted sister Katherine Schurmann, was selected as Brazil’s official entry for the 2017 Oscars and earned him a nomination for Best Director at the Brazilian Academy Awards, solidifying his reputation as a talented filmmaker.
His recent drama My Penguin Friend, starring Jean Reno and Adriana Barraza, explores the profound bond between a fisherman and a penguin, symbolizing the healing power of friendship. Released in the USA by Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate, and internationally by Universal Pictures, the film has garnered widespread acclaim, with an 85% critics rating and a 97% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Currently in post-production is his next film, By a Wire, centered on Dr. Drauzio Varella’s battle to save his brother’s life. The film features prominent Brazilian actors Bruno Gagliasso and Rômulo Estrela and is set for release in 2025.
In the realm of documentary and television, Schurmann has made significant contributions with projects such as Expedition to the Orient for National Geographic and Magellan Global Adventure for Globo TV. His award-winning documentary The World Twice Around garnered accolades at film festivals in Brazil, Buenos Aires, Milan, Rome, and New York.
Schurmann’s filmmaking journey began at the age of 13 when he documented his family’s sailing expedition around the world. This early experience, coupled with a lifetime of global exploration—having lived and traveled in 65 countries—has shaped his deep appreciation for diverse cultures and environments. These formative experiences continue to enrich his filmmaking, allowing him to tell universal stories with authenticity, emotional depth, and a unique understanding of the human condition. After his early start in filmmaking, Schurmann pursued formal film studies in New Zealand and the United States, where he refined his craft and honed his distinctive voice as a filmmaker.
Schurmann also leads Voice of the Oceans, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about ocean conservation and driving social change.
Renowned for his emotional storytelling and visionary direction, David Schurmann continues to captivate audiences around the world, solidifying his place as a distinguished voice in contemporary cinema.
Miriam Sprizter
Entertainment Journalist
About the moderator:
Miriam Spritzer is an international correspondent for a number of Brazilian outlets. Based in New York, she started her career in 2011 as an on-air reporter for TVCOM, a regional news channel for Grupo RBS and one of the largest media companies in Brazil. Additionally, she often contributed to Grupo RBS radio shows and newspapers. She has been published in renowned magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, L’Officiel and Marie Claire and has contributed to major broadcast and radio outlets including Jovem Pan, Rede Globo, Band, RedeTV and Record.
Throughout her life, Miriam has studied dance, music, vocal technique, acting and filmmaking. Due to her background in the performing arts, she specialized in culture and entertainment reporting and often covers stories on Broadway shows, film and television premieres, film festivals and art. As a reporter, Miriam is very known for her red carpet coverages and her profile interviews with renowned personalities in entertainment and the creative fields.
IMPORTANT DETAILS:
This panel will take place virtually over ZOOM. Ticket purchasers will receive a ZOOM link to this panel 2 hours before the published start time. If you don’t already have the ZOOM app, please make sure to download on your device before the panel start time.
If you purchase an All-Access Pass for our October Festival events prior to the date of this panel, you will also receive admission to this virtual panel, included as part of your pass.
If you are a current Annual Member of NFMLA, please email info@nfmla.org to receive a complimentary ticket to this panel. If you are not an Annual Member of NFMLA and would like to join, you can become a member here.
