"Paddington in Peru,"
the third installment in the beloved Paddington film series, takes audiences on a heartfelt journey back to the titular bear's roots. Released in the United Kingdom on November 8, 2024, and in the United States on February 14, 2025, the film explores themes of family, identity, and adventure.
Plot Overview
The story begins with Paddington receiving concerning news about his Aunt Lucy, prompting him and the Brown family to travel to Peru. Upon arrival, they discover Aunt Lucy has mysteriously disappeared from the Home for Retired Bears. Their quest to find her leads them through the Amazon rainforest, unveiling secrets about Paddington's past and heritage. Along the way, they encounter a treasure hunter named Hunter Cabot, portrayed by Antonio Banderas, whose intentions add complexity to their journey. The narrative intertwines elements of mystery, cultural exploration, and the enduring bond of family.
Cast and Characters
Ben Whishaw returns as the voice of Paddington, delivering the character's signature warmth and charm. The Brown family sees Hugh Bonneville reprising his role as Henry Brown, while Emily Mortimer steps into the role of Mary Brown, replacing Sally Hawkins. Mortimer described the experience as "nerve-wracking but also a great honor," acknowledging the challenge of filling Hawkins' shoes. Olivia Colman joins the cast as the Reverend Mother, bringing a blend of wit and mischief to the role. Antonio Banderas portrays Hunter Cabot, a treasure-seeking riverboat captain whose motives intertwine with Paddington's quest.
Direction and Production
Directed by Dougal Wilson, making his feature film debut, the movie marks a departure from the previous films helmed by Paul King. Wilson's approach introduces a fresh perspective, though some critics note a shift in tone. The screenplay, penned by Mark Burton, Jon Foster, and James Lamont, incorporates influences from classic adventure films, with nods to works like Werner Herzog's "Aguirre, the Wrath of God." Filming locations spanned the United Kingdom, Colombia, and Peru, capturing the rich and diverse landscapes integral to the story.
Critical Reception
"Paddington in Peru" has garnered mixed reviews. While the film retains the series' innate sweetness and humor, some critics feel it doesn't quite match the charm of its predecessors. The New Yorker notes that while some original charm remains, the movie sometimes feels strained and age-worn. Conversely, The Sun praises the film, stating that by the end, "it's hard not to feel all is okay with the world." Audiences polled by CinemaScore awarded the film an average grade of "A," consistent with the earlier films in the series.
Box Office Performance
As of February 17, 2025, "Paddington in Peru" has grossed $131.8 million worldwide. In the UK, it achieved the biggest opening weekend for a British film since "No Time to Die" in 2021, earning £9.65 million. In the U.S., the film debuted with $16 million over the four-day Presidents' Day weekend, finishing second behind "Captain America: Brave New World."
Conclusion
"Paddington in Peru" offers a heartfelt exploration of home and family, blending adventure with the endearing qualities that have made Paddington a cherished character. While it ventures into new thematic territories, the film maintains the warmth and humor that fans have come to love.
For a visual glimpse into the film, you can watch the official trailer below:
