by Alice-Ginevra Micheli, Contributing Writer
Paddington is the little bear from England who has consistently stolen the hearts of audiences through his eternal optimism and kindness.
This was something that people were scared wouldn’t be transferable in a film format. However, both Paddington and Paddington 2 illustrated the effectiveness of these principles through the films’ simple yet endearing storytelling, paired with their cartoon-like yet wondrous character work. This is something that has since become a bit of a signature for the director of both movies, Paul King, who went on to showcase the same elements in Wonka. In fact, it’s all this and more which has resulted in two movies about a funny little bear sometimes being considered perfect.
Now, with a new director at the helm (Dougal Wilson) Paddington in Peru finds our British bear (voiced by Ben Whishaw) off on a trip back to his native country, Darkest Peru, after being informed that his aunt (Imelda Staunton) has gone missing from the Home for Retired Bears. Joined by the Brown family, our beloved characters must trek the dastardly jungles and deep Amazonian rainforests, and solve many clues in order for everyone to be reunited once again.
It’s immediately noticeable that King left this sequel in the hands of fellow Wilson, with this being his debut feature film. While the tone and general rhythm of storytelling that Paddington fans have come to know are still very present, there is definitely something different this time around. Not enough for it to be identifiable beyond a paint-by-numbers feeling, this is not something families with kids will likely notice, or care very much about. However, if you’re someone who typically looks beyond a shiny exterior, it is noticeable.
This lack is also present in the screenwriting, as well as the overall scope of the film. It’s ironic to say that when it’s set in a completely different country, across a vast and interesting forest vibe, but it still feels like the budget or the general planning was significantly lesser than even the first Paddington film. To put it another way, it feels like we can see the strings of this one. It’s possible that it’s just because the spell this movie casts is less effective than those of the previous, so you’re not as entranced by the general rhythm of the tale being weaved.
Having said all of that, it is still incredibly wholesome. The franchise’s heart is very much intact, with all the characters, and their relationships — new or old — being emotional to witness. Paddington continues his journey to independence and understanding of self by going back where he came from with his new family to save his old one. It’s a metaphor of connection, love, and putting together the broken pieces of your heart so that you can see where you’re meant to be. A message that is still effective for any audience member. It’s what you need to ensure remains present so that any Paddington picture continues to be true to the name. While all the previously mentioned elements are certainly nice to have, and can elevate it from a good kids’ film to a great film, period, it’s positive to see that this part wasn’t discounted for a simpler or more marketable plot.
Paddington in Peru also doesn’t miss out on the castings of A-Listers in new roles, with Antonio Banderas and Olivia Coleman joining in as a canal boat’s captain and singing nun, respectively. Like the previous giants in similar roles (Nicole Kidman, Brendan Gleeson, and of course Hugh Grant, to name a few), these two really give their all to the silliness and whimsy a movie of this sort demands. Playing along with imaginary figments, retired jungle bears, and uncovering what gold actually means in Darkest Peru are all things that might seem ludicrous or fanciful to any serious actor, but it’s their acting chops which truly help make this a fun romp for any viewer.
Not to mention, due to Sally Hawkins being unavailable for the follow up, Emily Mortimer jumped into the beefy role of Mrs. Brown in splendid fashion. She naturally slots in with the current cast, resulting in that particular melody not being too upset by the change.
Overall, Paddington in Peru is a fun time. If you like the previous two movies, or just want something carefree and wholesome to watch on a Sunday night with or without your family, then this is certainly one for consideration. I’d be happy for many more of these films to be made, as long as the heart continues to remain intact, so audiences always remember that to be kind is to be strong.
Rating: Liked It
Paddington Peru will be in theaters on February 14
You can read more from Alice-Ginevra Micheli, and follow her on Instagram and Letterboxd