What is the name of the surfing penguin protagonist in the 2007 film Surf's Up?

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The surfing penguin protagonist in the 2007 film Surf’s Up is Cody Maverick.

Cody is a young rockhopper penguin who dreams of becoming a championship surfer. The animated film presents his story through a mockumentary format, following a fictional surfing competition on the island of Pen Gu.

Cody’s rivalry with the established champion Tank Evans drives much of the plot. He also meets the older surfer Big Z, whose guidance changes Cody’s understanding of competition and success. The film combines sports-film conventions with documentary-style interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

Cody Maverick is sometimes confused with Big Z because both are central surfers in the story. Big Z is Cody’s mentor, while Cody is the film’s main character and aspiring competitor. Surf’s Up was released by Sony Pictures Animation in 2007.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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