Written and directed by Paul King
Starring – Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Hugh Grant, Ben Whishaw
The Plot – Paddington (Whishaw) is happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens, where he has become a popular member of the community, spreading joy and marmalade wherever he goes. While searching for the perfect present for his beloved Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, Paddington spots a unique pop-up book in Mr. Gruber’s antique shop, and embarks upon a series of odd jobs to buy it. But when the book is stolen, it’s up to Paddington and the Browns to unmask the thief.
Rated PG for some mild action and rude humor
THE POSITIVES
– Infinite imagination in visual effects, including some awe-inspiring transitional stylings that echo the vibe of colorless page-turning animation in a pop-up book kind of feel.
– Hugh Grant’s energetically over-the-top charge as the antagonist for the film. Omits that feeling of fun from Grant’s usually distinguished reservoir
– A screenplay with an innocent adventure that is equal (If not better) than the original film.
– Despite the additions of many new cast members, the Brown family feel like they are just as necessary as ever in the ever-unfolding mystery of this bear’s quest to get back home
– Seems comfortable in finding an entertaining medium between adults and child audiences that doesn’t alienate either’s experience.
– No fart or bodily humor. This should be a given, but in a kid’s film, it is unassuming.
– The vibrancy of colorful backdrops, especially in that of the Brown’s home that never settles for one choice of color consistency
– Paul King’s strict approach in not relying on any material or familiarities of the first film, crafting an original chapter that stands on its own
THE NEGATIVES
– The humor is noticeably absent. There were moments where I grinned, but nothing that gave me the long-term laughter needed in keeping the atmosphere delightful
– While the overall animation is exceptional, the shading of Paddington’s design still feels hollow to the light and shadows that he comes into contact with. His face gives off a level of being too light to be authentic.
8/10