HAS it really been seven whole years since our last visit to 32 Windsor Gardens? If the address itself doesn’t ring a bell, you’ll definitely know its inhabitants. This is the home of the Brown family, Henry, Mary, Jonathan and Judy, and the Peruvian lodger they took in way back in 2014.
Once popular, now globally beloved, Paddington Bear has proven himself an able ambassador for quintessential Britishness across the last decade. He’s come a long way and been terribly busy.
In the gap between the new film, in cinemas tomorrow, and last, Paddington has launched an interactive experience in London, gained a television series, and met the late Queen for tea and marmalade sandwiches.
Befitting a bear of international renown, Paddington’s third cinematic outing is a globetrotting adventure. Paddington 2 may have seen him locked behind bars but Paddington in Peru finds our hero unleashed.
The film opens, as per, in London, as vibrant and diverse as ever. A letter from Aunt Lucy (Imelda Staunton) invites Paddington (Ben Whishaw) to visit her in Peru’s Home for Retired Bears. She is, the letter reveals, unwell and keen to see her nephew, perhaps one last time.
With only a moment’s delay - he must first source a passport - Paddington sets flight for Peru, the Brown family, and housekeeper Mrs. Bird (Julie Walters), in tow. Only, there’s a shock awaiting him. At the Home for Retired Bears, Paddington is met by Olivia Coleman’s Reverend Mother, who reveals that Aunt Lucy has gone missing.
To offer immediate reassurance, Paddington in Peru is another delightful entry in a film series that has yet to put a step wrong. It may not quite reach the dizzying heights of its predecessor - the lack of Hugh Grant is felt - but comes very close.
A few notable changes before and behind the camera do stand out. While Hugh Bonneville is back as Mr. Brown, Emily Mortimer replaces Sally Hawkins as his artistic, free spirited wife Mary. Also missing is Paul King, writer and director of the first two films, who departed to deliver last year’s equally wonderful Wonka.
In his place, Dougal Wilson delivers an impressive directorial debut, while a script by Mark Burton, Jon Foster and James Lamont delivers on warmth, heart and humour.
Yes, Paddington is back. And doesn’t the world feel brighter for it?
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