5/5
Review by Michele E. Hawkins.
Paddington, that marmalade-sandwich-eating bear, is back. Having lived happily for some years with the Brown family in London, Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) finally becomes a British citizen with his very own passport. And a lucky thing that is too, because soon after the great day of his passport’s delivery, Paddington receives a worrying letter from the Reverend Mother (Olivia Colman) at the Home for Retired Bears in Paddington’s homeland, Peru. The letter informs Paddington that his beloved Aunt Lucy (voiced by Imelda Staunton) is poorly, and that missing Paddington is probably worsening her health. Paddington immediately determines to go to see her.
At the same time, big changes are happening within the Brown family, its younger members set to go their own ways. Mrs Mary Brown (Emily Mortimer), suggests that the whole family go with Paddington and have a final vacation together before anyone leaves home, and even Mr Henry Brown (Hugh Bonneville), prompted by his new boss to take some risks, agrees. And so to Peru they all go, accompanied by the quirky Mrs Bird (Julie Walters).
What should be a straightforward mission to cheer up Aunty Lucy turns into a dizzying adventure down the Amazon River in a boat owned by Hunter Cabot (Antonio Banderas), who isn’t what he seems, and piloted by his daughter, Gina (Carla Tous), who is. One unforeseen disaster leads to another, and the Browns find themselves trekking through rainforests, crossing dangerous gorges, and clambering up mountain peaks, all the while led by the indomitably cheerful Paddington.
A great deal of talent has been assembled to bring Paddington in Peru to life. No-one puts a paw wrong, but there are some standout performances, including Olivia Colman as the Reverent Mother, Antonio Banderas as the haunted Hunter Cabot, and Ben Whishaw, whose voice delightfully conveys Paddington’s innocent optimism.
Stunning cinematography of Peruvian wilderness and ancient constructions, a great plot with enough twists and turns to keep viewers in thrall, rich and colourful sets, excellent pacing, some surprising singing and dancing, a few memorable cameos, and the odd tarantula all come together to sweep the audience along on this memorable, heart-warming adventure.
Paddington in Peru features everything that children from perhaps five years and older — taking into account the scary bits — and adults alike will relish. For those who haven’t seen the previous Paddington films, don’t worry — this one gives enough background for viewers to easily join his story. This is a film not to be missed by anyone with a good heart, a love of adventure, and a soft spot for little bears. Be sure to wait til the end of the credits for a final treat.
Paddtion looks very good flim hopefully good one hopefully there more two come paddtion flims dan