Paddington hits the trifecta, a beautifully constructed instalment to the Paddington trilogy. Paddington in Peru (2024) is set apart from its predecessors because of its playful approach to genre, Paddington in Peru sets our cuddly British bear in the centre of an action adventure feature. Unlike his previous stories, Paddington must leave the comfort of London to find his beloved Aunt Lucy in the middle of the Amazon.
The Paddington films are an example of how to tell classic stories, do not dumb them down just for children but instead apply interesting cinema techniques, intelligent storytelling and simple comedy to create something fore-filling for an audience. The Paddington films are not simple, each has a complex narrative that will charm you and surprise you. Paddington in Peru (2024) was able to deliver a genuinely fun and entertaining storyline alongside an emotional message. “This is my tribe but you are my family”, as we hear Ben Whishaw’s soft, gentle Paddington voice utter these words the cinema was filled with sniffles. Paddington has the power to move an audience alongside the light hearted, hilarious moments. I was thrilled to embark on a journey with Paddington once again and I’m sure this film will become a family favourite for years to come.
Paul King directed the previous two Paddington films but sadly due to scheduling conflicts he could only work as an executive producer on this third feature. Despite this, director Dougal Wilson did an excellent job of creating a cohesive third instalment to the franchise. This film had all the spirit and wonder of the first two and used plenty of engaging and comedic camera techniques to keep the audience captivated throughout.
If you are planning on watching Paddington in Peru (2024) be sure to keep an eye out for plenty of classic cinema reference, something I adore about these films is the opportunity to pay homage to popular movies. In this film we see a nod to classic action movie Indiana Jones along with a more obvious reference to The Sound of Music. Little moments like these make all the difference to a film nerd like me and I appreciate each one.
The cast were all spectacular as usual, Ben Whishaw’s voice is truly faultless as everybody’s favourite bear along with the combines humour of Olivia Coleman, Antonio Banderas and Hugh Bonneville. Although new additions to the franchise, Coleman and Banderas brought a brilliant new voice to the story and I thoroughly enjoyed their characters.
I want to conclude this review by saying Paddington should not be seen as a children’s film, this is a playful feature for adults and children alike to soak up adventure and embark on a laugh out laugh journey. If anyone reading this review has disregarded these films based off its premise or character you are sorely mistaken and I can guarantee these films will leave you with the biggest grin on your face having chuckled the whole way through. Treat yourself to watching Paddington in Peru, you won’t regret it.
Probe Points
★★★★☆
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