Just as delightful as the first two movies, Paddington in Peru may not be as hilarious, but it is a heartwarming and colorful family adventure that takes Paddington Bear back to his South American roots: the vast Amazonian wilderness (brought to life with visual effects) where he spent his early years in the care of his Aunt Lucy before moving to England.
This film is filled with cheeky entertainment, drawing inspiration from Indiana Jones and even two films by Werner Herzog. The opening scene sheds light on Paddington’s bond with Aunt Lucy, who the Brown family receives concerning news about – she is feeling down and reluctant to leave her room at the bear retirement home in Peru. Isn’t it time for Paddington to visit her?
Formidable … Olivia Colman as the all-singing, all-praying manager of the home for retired bears. Photograph: Peter Mountain/Studiocanal
Ben Whishaw lends his gentle and innocent voice to Paddington, while the Browns remain as vibrant as ever. Hugh Bonneville portrays the lovably goofy Mr. Brown, who is now doing better at work; Emily Mortimer steps into the role of Mrs. Brown, experiencing empty-nest syndrome as her children, Judy (Madeleine Harris) and Jonathan (Samuel Joslin), prepare to leave the nest. Julie Walters plays Mrs. Bird, who acts as their housekeeper and possibly a distant relative.
The whole gang embarks on an adventure to Peru, where they are welcomed by a quirky guitar-playing nun who oversees the retirement home for bears – a comical performance by Olivia Colman. However, Paddington and the Browns soon realize that they must venture into the jungle, guided by a roguish riverboat captain, played by Antonio Banderas.
Colman and Banderas deliver strong character performances and provide excellent support – but even together, they do not match the comedic brilliance of Hugh Grant’s vain actor, Phoenix Buchanan, in the beloved Paddington 2. While Paddington in Peru is a solid choice for the holiday season and remains thoroughly entertaining, the humor may not be as dense as before. Taking Paddington out of his familiar British environment, while narratively logical and aligning with the franchise’s values of inclusivity and diversity, feels like a bit of a stretch, akin to a special episode of a sitcom where the cast travels to a sunny destination. Some of the comedic context and ecosystem have been lost. There may be fewer jokes moment by moment, but the film still exudes the same energy, spectacle, and enjoyment.
Paddington in Peru will be released in the UK on November 8, in Australia on January 1, and in the US on January 17.