Leo

At the end of the movie, Ms. Malkin wins Teacher of the Year and takes Leo and Squirtle to her new classroom, but their future there is uncertain. While they are excited about their new surroundings and the chance to learn, the new classroom is populated with younger, wilder students who are more likely to mistreat them, and Leo and Squirtle’s safety could be at greater risk. Throughout the film, Leo initially plans to escape because he fears he only has a year left to live after learning he’s 74 years old and won’t live past 75. However, once he starts talking to the kids and helping them with their problems, he finds joy in their company and decides not to run away. Squirtle becomes jealous of Leo’s attention, especially after discovering Leo’s conversations with the kids, which leads to tension and ultimately Squirtle live-streaming Leo’s interactions, exposing his ability to talk and breaking the trust with the children. This betrayal prompts Ms. Malkin to abandon Leo in the Everglades, fearing that his talking abilities could cause problems for her when she receives praise for the kids’ success. Her true motive is to keep the recognition for herself, which she confesses to only after the kids and Squirtle rescue Leo. Despite getting a new classroom, Leo and Squirtle’s safety may be compromised, and the ending leaves open the possibility that they might be better off staying in their previous, safer environment. The film ends on a note of complicated choices and uncertain futures for the beloved classroom pets.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44