Paddington in Peru premieres in UK cinemas on November 8, with a US release following on January 17, 2025.
British television has a tradition of sending characters on exotic adventures for special episodes, and now Paddington Bear is getting in on the action with his latest escapade, Paddington in Peru. While the idea of our favorite marmalade-loving bear embarking on a journey to his homeland is charming, the execution falls short of capturing the magic of his previous adventures.
Director Dougal Wilson kicks off the film with a promising start as Paddington’s attempt to take a passport photo turns into a hilarious mishap. However, the whimsical chaos that defined the earlier Paddington films is lacking in this installment, despite moments where it seems like the stage is set for comedy gold.
The plot takes the Browns to Peru in search of Paddington’s Aunt Lucy, leading them on an Indiana Jones-esque adventure to find the mythical city of El Dorado. While the adventure theme seems like a perfect fit for Paddington, the film fails to fully embrace the physical comedy that could have elevated the story.
Although Paddington in Peru may not have as many jokes as its predecessors, it remains a fun and enjoyable ride. Ben Wishaw shines once again as the voice of Paddington, with the rest of the cast delivering solid performances. Olivia Colman steals the show as the Reverend Mother, bringing a delightful energy to her scenes.
While there are some misses, such as Antonio Banderas’s underwhelming performance and a shift to a grander scale that feels slightly out of place, the heart of the story remains focused on themes of home and belonging. Despite its flaws, Paddington in Peru manages to deliver a sweet and heartfelt message that resonates with audiences.