Paddington Bear, everyone’s favorite marmalade-loving hero, returns for another whimsical adventure in Paddington in Peru. While this third installment may not quite reach the brilliance of its predecessor, it is still a charming, heartfelt film brimming with wonder, humor, and endearing warmth that fans of the franchise are sure to enjoy.
Working from a script by Mark Burton and Jon Foster & James Lamont, Director Dougal Wilson takes the reigns from Paul King who directed the first two films, and deftly expands Paddington’s world by transporting him—and the Brown family— back to the lush and mysterious rainforests of Peru. This narrative twist provides a thrilling contrast to the familiar streets of London, offering a fresh perspective on Paddington’s timeless story.
The film explores heartfelt themes of identity, belonging, and the meaning of home. Is home where you’re from? Or is it where you end up? By displacing the Brown family and returning Paddington to his native land, the movie beautifully juxtaposes these two ideas, drawing powerful parallels between birth families and found families.
The adventure kicks into gear with a mystery at its core. Aunt Lucy (voiced by Imelda Staunton), the beloved matriarch of Paddington’s life, has gone missing from the Home for Retired Bears. The only clue left behind is a mysterious map leading deep into the Amazon rainforest. Guided by his unerring optimism and pure-hearted determination, Paddington sets out, alongside the Browns, on a quest that’s as thrilling as it is emotional. The story blends humor and intrigue with an exploration of identity, acceptance, and the bonds that make up a family, all with Paddington’s signature blend of earnestness and unintentional chaos.
Much like its predecessors, Paddington in Peru has been designed with meticulous attention to detail. The rainforest backdrops are a feast for the eyes, vibrantly alive with cascading waterfalls, dense green canopies, and striking wildlife. These visuals are beautifully paired with a magical musical score from Dario Marianelli that perfectly captures the film’s adventurous tone and emotional undercurrent.
Ben Whishaw once again breathes life into Paddington’s character with his pitch-perfect voice performance, effortlessly embodying the bear’s innocence, sweetness, and unwavering goodness. The rest of the cast is equally strong, with Hugh Bonneville and Emily Mortimer providing plenty of heart and humor as the caring Browns. Mortimer, who replaces Sally Hawkins, slips seamlessly into the shoes of Mrs. Brown, balancing strength and tenderness.
One standout, however, is Olivia Colman’s delightfully fun performance as Reverend Mother. She brings her usual impeccable comedic timing and charisma – especially with a lively musical number – to the screen, but sadly, she doesn’t get enough screen time to truly shine. Similarly, Antonio Banderas adds an extra layer of intrigue as Hunter Cabot, a suave treasure hunter, blending charm and mischief in equal measure.
While the film retains the warmth and humor that fans have come to expect, it doesn’t quite capture the same extraordinary spark that made the first two installments so universally acclaimed. Some of the emotional beats don’t land with the same impact, and a few plot points feel slightly undercooked. Even so, the film’s commitment to its core themes of acceptance, adventure, and personal growth makes it a deeply satisfying experience.
Ultimately, Paddington in Peru succeeds in delivering a story full of wit, charm, and heartfelt emotion. It keeps the beloved bear’s legacy alive while introducing a sense of wonder through its exploration of new and vibrant landscapes. For fans of Paddington, both young and old, this movie is a warm hug in cinematic form. It’s an invitation to reflect on what “home” truly means and a reminder that even the smallest, fluffiest heroes can make an enormous difference.
Paddington in Peru may not live up to its predecessors, but it’s an undeniably delightful treat filled with laughs, heart, and a touch of Peruvian magic. Definitely worth a watch!
MPAA Rating: PG.
Runtime: 106 mins
Director: Dougal Wilson
Writer: Mark Burton; Jon Foster; James Lamont
Cast: Hugh Bonneville; Emily Mortimer; Ben Whishaw
Genre: Adventure | Family | Comedy
Tagline: A little bear goes a long way.
Memorable Movie Quote: "Your Aunt Lucy is gone and we have no idea where she is"
Distributor: Columbia Pictures
Official Site:
Release Date: February 14, 2025
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: Paddington returns to Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey.
