Paddington in Peru: A Warm Hug of a Movie That Can’t Quite Match Its Predecessor

Paddington in Peru Review: A Wholesome Jungle Adventure That Charms but Falls Short of the Heartfelt Brilliance of Paddington 2

Let’s face it: Paddington 2 set the standard ridiculously high. So high that it briefly bumped Citizen Kane from its lofty critical perch, which had cinephiles doing double takes and, perhaps, smiling at the odd contest. Now, Paddington in Peru has those very big, marmalade-smeared shoes to fill, and while it is an appealing return to the world of a loved bear, it doesn’t quite recapture the sparkling brilliance of the previous installment.

Changing of Guard

This is perhaps the biggest difference among other things. Paul King, the man behind the heart and soul of the first two Paddington films, steps aside. Dougal Wilson assumes the responsibility for his feature debut and does a commendable job, but there’s a definitive sense of imitation rather than innovation in the film. Similarly, with the shifting of Sally Hawkins to Emily Mortimer as Mrs. Brown, she fits in the shoes and flows nicely into the role, but the absence of the original creative team quietly shadows the film.

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New Setting, Old Charm

The film does not overstay its welcome in London. Instead, it takes Paddington and the Browns to Peru: the bear’s home country, sweeping cobbled streets for lush rainforests and lofty mountains. It is a much-needed relocation in which new bright visuals graced with fresh twists from the antics familiar in the series have been brought to bear.

The movie starts with Paddington learning that Aunt Lucy has been so glum since she has been at a Home for Retired Bears. In true Brown fashion, they rally together to make a transcontinental journey to cheer up Aunt Lucy. But once they land, Aunt Lucy isn’t there; hence, a grand adventure in the jungle commences-complete with a delightfully dubious riverboat captain (Antonio Banderas), spirited daughter (Carla Tous), and an old nun with a pretty catchy love of a guitar played large by Olivia Colman.

Fun Fluff and a Sprinkling of Intrigue

Paddington in Peru has all the requirements expected-slapstick, oddball villains, heartwarming, and enough beautiful images to keep younger watchers in thrall. It promises treasure hunting, ancestral secrets, and plenty of jungle mayhem, all shot with great production value.

Yet for everything, even color and movement, the storytelling is somehow run-of-the-mill, not inspired. The mystery is more tangled, the jokes more distributed, and themes less felt. The emotional sound that comes so near to Paddington 2 is slightly stifled here because there has been an attempt to delve into ideas about family bonds and identity. Aunt Lucy’s new motto (When skies are grey / hope is the way) just doesn’t tug at the heartstrings like her previous wisdom regarding kindness and politeness.

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The Supporting Cast Shine

Even with the slightly undercooked script, the cast gives their all. Olivia Colman is delightful, and Antonio Banderas brings a swashbuckling bravado to his role. Nothing can be better than Ben Whishaw appearing as Paddington, as always exuding the right amount of innocence and sincerity combined. Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, and the whole Brown family are, as always, warm presences.

Yet the performances are so bright and sparkling but it cannot hide the fact that this third installment isn’t taking risks. It is simply set to echo the past successes rather than somehow trying something bold and new.

Verdict: Sweet, but Slightly Stale

Paddington in Peru can’t be called a failure at all; it’s an honest and pretty enjoyable family film that really makes for a nice trip to the big screen. There is heart and humor flavored with just enough nostalgia to satisfy the older fans. But where Paddington 2 lifted, Paddington in Peru just glides along. This is more of a beautifully constructed encore that fails to blow the roof off.

For now, it is a comfort food marmalade sandwich: familiar, pleasant, but it misses that added layer of magic. Hopefully, the next sequel will stir things up a little.

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