Paddington in Peru isn’t the best film in the franchise (That honor goes to Paddington 2). Nevertheless, it maintains much of what has made Paddington the best live-action family-friendly franchise in recent film history: charm. The family-film genre is dominated by titles that rely on sarcasm, playful putdowns and slapstick violence. Paddington, though, rejects all three, replacing them with sincerity, love and the quiet power of kindness.
Paddington in Peru promotes what is good and true. It also tugs at our hearts by championing nostalgia and celebrating the past: foldable maps, physical books, even handwritten letters. Not surprisingly, antique stores make an appearance in all three movies.
The clever, whimsical humor of the first two movies returns for Paddington in Peru. But not everything is the same. Gone is actress Sally Hawkins, who brilliantly portrayed Mrs. Brown in the first two movies and has been replaced by Emily Mortimer, who fills in admirably. Thankfully, though, the rest of the cast, including Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey) as Mr. Brown and Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington, returns.
The film’s final moments deliver one of the warmest, most heartfelt pro-adoption messages you’ll ever witness.
Let’s hope the next release finds Paddington back in London. But for just one movie, it’s a grand adventure worth taking.
Paddington in Peru is rated PG for action, mild rude humor and some thematic elements. It contains no coarse language.
Discussion questions for families: What factors contribute to families growing apart over time, and what strategies can they implement to rebuild and strengthen their relationships? How does Paddington’s unwavering kindness influence those he encounters? (And how can kindness impact those you encounter?) How did the film impact your own view of adoptive families? What did you think of Paddington’s decision at the end of the film?
Entertainment rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Family-friendly rating: 5 out of 5 stars.
Photo Credit: ©Sony