Paddington in Peru – A Change of Scenery and Heart

Paddington in Peru exchanges the streets of London for the jungles of Peru in a film which embraces adventure and childish shenanigans to a fault, in this exchange the film loses some of its heart and maturation for a more family friendly adventure. Meanwhile, aside from the change of scenery, this film also features some changes in production with Paul King, the director of the series’ first two installments, stepping back from the director’s chair (though staying on as a co-writer of the story and an executive producer) as well as Sally Hawkins who chose to not return and was subsequently replaced by Emily Mortimer, their replacements however do an admirable job even if their absence is felt. In spite of this noticeable switch up, giving audiences a lighter and more entertaining experience, one bolstered by the hilarious performances by Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas, adding to the series legacy of fantastic actors doing remarkable work. Colman’s facial acting in particular is nothing short of fantastic, resulting in roars of laughter in every scene she featured in, while Banderas charms and excites audiences with his equally hilarious portrayal of a crazed gold hunter/family man.

New director Dougal Wilson crafts this third installment in a way that continues the series’ legacy as premium children’s entertainment and even if it may be a step down from the series prior entries, it is worth a watch for the truly masterful performances from Colman and Banderas alone. This change may not be for everyone as the film approaches its familiar themes of family and societal acceptance in a way that is geared more towards children than the last two, but those themes remain strong and allow for some strong character moments.

This time around, the story sees Paddington (Whishaw) and the Brown family on an adventure through the Peruvian jungle to find Aunt Lucy (Imelda Staunton), who has suddenly gone missing upon Paddington’s arrival to his homeland to visit. Upon arrival to ‘The Home For Retired Bears,’ the family is met with Reverend Mother (Colman) who alerts them to Aunt Lucy’s disappearance. Later, giving them some trinkets, Reverend Mother sends the Browns on their way into the jungle to find Aunt Lucy as Mrs. Bird (Julie Walters) stayed behind in case she turned up. The family then runs into Hunter Cabot (Antonio Banderas), a boat captain whose boat they requisitioned for their journey, and from there, they were off, forced to navigate the treacherous jungle and conniving captain as a family.

Still capturing the previous films childlike whimsy, the film increases it even further to potentially reach younger audiences. Paddington in Peru approaches the other film’s themes of family and acceptance with further discussion on immigration and what it means to be of two cultures, as audiences witness Paddington discover his Peruvian heritage. The result is a surprisingly nuanced perspective that extends the prior films discussion of ‘the other’ and acceptance, making for it being the films strongest element. Wilson approaches this thematic element with care and succeeds in not extending the film’s comedic angle towards its central themes. Even if it lacks the emotionality that resonated with many in the second film, the film still triumphs in presenting adult themes in children’s content, approaching it with a maturation unseen in most children’s films today.

The Brown family’s journey is also one of discovery as they bond and become stronger as a unit, learning to accept the growing pains that come with an aging family. In the end, the film is sweet and delivers in both charm and thematic resonance. That being said, the film, for the most part, struggles in pacing entering the third act and runs a little long at the end. Moreover, the film’s more childlike sensibilities may disappoint those who adore the second films directorial and emotional approach. It’s admittedly not as funny or emotional as the second film but strikes a healthy balance that will inevitably lead to a wonderful experience for any family heading to the theatres eager to watch their favourite bear.

still courtesy of Columbia Pictures

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Brad Simon

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