Paddington is back, and for London Mums, it’s simply Paddingtacular! Paddington in Peru is the best family film of the year! 10/10.
The story
It’s been a long wait – seven years since our favourite bear’s last cinematic outing – but Paddington in Peru is worth every minute. This time, the beloved bear travels to his roots in Peru, alongside the Brown family, to visit Aunt Lucy at the Home for Retired Bears. A new adventure springs to life, pulling them into a mystery that winds through the lush Amazon rainforest and the stunning Andes. For families across the UK, it’s a beautiful, heart-warming journey full of laughs, charm, and meaningful moments.
The trailer
The verdict
A Bear-y Wonderful Cast and Crew
Directed by Dougal Wilson, with a screenplay from Mark Burton, Jon Foster, James Lamont, Paul King, and Michael Bond, Paddington in Peru feels as fresh and thoughtful as the first two films. True to the legacy, Wilson’s direction shines, giving both newcomers and Paddington superfans a delightful balance of adventure, comedy, and heart-warming family values.
While fans were initially a bit surprised by Emily Mortimer taking on the role of Mrs. Brown from Sally Hawkins, Mortimer brings her own warmth and flair, filling the role beautifully and making it her own. And let’s talk about Olivia Colman as a singing nun – she’s a riot and simply unforgettable! And Antonio Banderas? A scene-stealer, adding depth and dashes of fun that’ll keep both kids and adults grinning.
A Paddington Masterpiece
This film truly honours the legacy. While it doesn’t quite outshine Paddington 2 (a tall order for any sequel), it sits comfortably alongside the first Paddington movie, brimming with all the fun, laughter, and wisdom we love. It’s evident that the producers didn’t rush, choosing to let the magic of Paddington and his gentle values return in just the right way. Little ones and adults alike will leave the theatre with warm, full hearts and a strong desire to be just that little bit kinder.
Our very own junior reviewer, Gaia, was over the moon and insisted on giving it a full 10/10. And she wasn’t alone – after the screening, London mums we spoke to were laughing, crying, and wholeheartedly pleased. One mum who’d never seen the previous films was so enchanted that she couldn’t wait to dive into the earlier movies and Michael Bond’s books.
More Paddington to Come?
There’s an unmissable bonus treat after the credits with Hugh Grant’s cameo – don’t leave too soon! And rumour has it that the film-makers are already planning a fourth adventure.
With a message that rings truer than ever, Aunt Lucy’s wisdom resounds throughout: If we’re kind and polite, the world will be right.London Mums couldn’t agree more – and Paddington in Peru is here to remind us all why we love this little bear so dearly.