Everyone’s favourite marmalade-loving bear is back in Paddington In Peru – with all the charm, chaos and comedic calamity we’ve come to expect – but with a refreshing dose of swash-buckling adventure, a guitar-slinging nun and a glamorous new backdrop.
Review by Lisa Bachmayer
Paddington in Peru is the third instalment of the film series, based on the original book character by Michael Bond, but it’s just as delightful as a standalone film.
There is no need to “catch up” and see the other films, unless of course you’re in the mood for a Paddington movie marathon before you go. In which case, we strongly recommend serving up some marmalade sandwiches and a pot of tea. We’re sure the bear himself would approve!
This time round, Paddington and the Brown family head to Peru to visit Aunt Lucy at the Home for Retired Bears, only to be plunged into the Amazon rainforest – and a big adventure – when the visit is overshadowed by mystery.
Instead of Paddington being the displaced bear, now that he’s returned to his native Peru, it’s the Browns who find themselves thrown into unfamiliar territory and in a recipe for comedic chaos.
Much of the cast from the previous films return and it’s plain to see how comfortable and capable they are in these roles, especially Hugh Bonneville as Henry Brown (from Downtown Abbey and Notting Hill, in which he played Bernie the stockbroker, in case you spend the whole film trying to place him, as we were).
Those more familiar with the animated television series The Adventures of Paddington than the films will appreciate how the actors charmingly bring the characters to life on the big screen.
The only original cast member of the Brown family not to return is Sally Hawkins as Mary Brown, who has been replaced by Emily Mortimer in a heart-warming performance of the artistic and sentimental mother.
Meanwhile, Antonio Banderas as the gold-hungry Captain Hunter Cabot and Olivia Colman as the guitar-clutching Reverend Mother are incredible and almost steal several scenes, if it isn’t for the stable of regular characters holding their own.
If a nun playing a guitar and singing amongst the green hills sounds a bit familiar, you’ll appreciate a particular little scene at the start which delightfully takes classic musical fans to the Austrian alps for a split second, and back to the Peruvian rainforest.
That’s the thing about this film – it’s family friendly, but there are so many charming and witty little references that only adults will appreciate, making them chuckle along with their kids to Paddington and his antics – often at different times.
The film touches on some poignant themes that parents of older children will be able to relate to – including a teenager that stays in their room and an adventure-seeking high school graduate ready to fly the nest – but with all the fun and charm that makes you smile at the same time as pulling at your heart.
By far the best thing about the latest instalment of the Paddington films is how it appeals to such a wide audience, well supported by a witty script and strong cast.
Paddington in Peru is rated PG for mild themes, with several perilous yet exciting adventure scenes and any weapons featured are primarily theatrical in appearance and only threatened, not used. We recommend it for ages five and above.
Our six-year-old reviewer, who doesn’t often sit through feature-length films, happily watched, chuckled and squealed with delight throughout the 1 hour and 46 minute film.
A little tip: be sure to stay for the credits for a surprise cameo appearance.
Who would have thought a trip into “deepest, darkest Peru” would be so much fun? Well, when Paddington B. Bear is our expedition leader, how could it not?
Parents will love Paddington in Peru as much as their children – if not more. The fabulous cast, stunning setting and delightful combination of mystery, comedy and chaos are sure to charm movie goers of any age.
PADDINGTON IN PERU IS SHOWING IN CINEMAS FROM 1 JANUARY 2025
As per all our Play & Go reviews, this is not a sponsored post and our review is done completely independently.
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
Image Source: STUDIOCANAL
SUBSCRIBE
Follow Play & Go on Facebook and Instagram
Want to get all the latest events and activities straight to your inbox?
Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter below to keep up to date with our latest posts and find out all the best events & activities for Adelaide families. Newsletters are only sent once a week, and you may sometimes get a special offer exclusively for our subscribers only!
