Rating: 3.5/5
Synopsis:
After a long break between sequels, “Paddington in Peru” gets the gang back together in a new setting. After hearing of his Aunt Lucy’s mysterious disappearance, Paddington and the Browns set off on a rescue mission in Peru to find her. As always, the family manages to find a bit of trouble along the way. After they are caught in the middle of a Peruvian legend, Paddington must figure out a way to avoid getting caught up in the mess and find his Aunt Lucy once and for all.
Positives:
I am late to the game with the ‘Paddington” franchise, making an effort to catch up before seeing this one. I heard great things about the films for years but never got around to seeing them. I’m happy to say that each of them are sweet in their own way, being a perfect outing for families with younger children. “Paddington in Peru” is another fun adventure with the British bear and his adopted family, getting into more trouble and finding themselves in hilarious predicaments. But this time we get a change of scenery as Paddington travels home to rescue his Aunt Lucy. The cast all seems to be having fun, with the Brown’s joining Paddington on his South American adventure. The fresh setting is a nice change, as we get to see Paddington return home and revisit his heritage. The cast all do a nice job, but the addition of Antonio Banderas as the mischievous tour guide adds a nice layer of silliness. Sally Hawkins unfortunately couldn’t return this time around but Emily Mortimer does a nice job in her place as Mrs. Brown. Ben Whishaw brings as much charm as ever voicing Paddington.
Much like the previous films, “Paddington in Peru” has some light hearted humor and heartwarming messages for families to enjoy. There are plenty of unintended problems that the Browns get roped into on Paddington’s behalf. Many of the silly exchanges will trigger giggles out of younger viewers while making sure parents are enjoying it as well. The film explores familial bonds and how much relatives will go to assist their loved ones. It also examines adopted family versus blood, something Paddington has struggled with when relocating to England. I enjoyed seeing Paddington finally get some closure on who he is, embracing the bear within him but remembering that he is now a Brown. The film doesn’t shy away from family legacy either, highlighting the pressures future generations feel to keep their family name afloat. There is plenty to enjoy for audiences of all ages!
Negatives:
Although I enjoyed this new formula, I can’t say “Paddington in Peru” worked on every level. The film feels the least connected to the characters and their story, where the first two really built up the relationship between Paddington and the Browns. The plot has many different substories going on at once, especially the one where Antonio Banderas is dealing with the voices from his family about finding the legendary gold in the jungle. This made the film feel less focused than the previous two, abandoning the intimacy that focused on Paddington’s experience of fitting into a new culture. I also thought that the antics were the most ridiculous this time. It’s hard to believe some of the directions the story would go even in a Paddington movie.
Conclusion:
I commend “Paddington in Peru” for continuing the consistency and warmth the franchise has become known for. The new setting freshens the story up with new adventures for Paddington and the Browns. Although the story feels less focused than the previous two, there is still plenty of fun to be had. This is the perfect matinee movie to take the family to on a weekend. Maybe even bring the marmalade for a snack!
