In Penguins of Madagascar, Dr. Octavius Brine’s real identity is Dave.
Dave is a giant Pacific octopus who blames the penguins for taking attention away from him at zoos and aquariums. He disguises himself as the respected scientist Dr. Octavius Brine and develops a serum intended to transform the penguins into monstrous forms.
The character’s plan gives the film its central conflict and connects the penguins’ comic fame to the villain’s resentment. The name “Dr. Octavius Brine” is a deliberately misleading alias: “octavius” hints at an octopus, while “Brine” evokes salt water.
Dave is voiced by John Malkovich in the English-language film. He is not the same character as the North Wind’s leader, Classified, or any of the penguins’ earlier zoo acquaintances.