Everyone’s favorite marmalade-loving bear is back; this time, he’s trading the streets of London for the lush landscapes of South America. “Paddington in Peru,” the third installment in the Paddington film series, takes audiences on an exciting and heartfelt journey as Paddington embarks on a quest to find his beloved Aunt Lucy, who has mysteriously disappeared. Released on Feb. 14, 2025, the audience is brought on another adventure with the ever-supportive Brown family by his side, the adventure brings new challenges, eccentric characters and plenty of warm-hearted humor.
Ben Whishaw once again delivers a pitch-perfect performance as the voice of Paddington, capturing the bear’s signature politeness, optimism and knack for (accidentally) causing chaos. The Brown family—played by Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins and others—returns with the same lovable dynamic that made the previous films so charming. However, the introduction of fresh faces, including Olivia Colman as a suspicious yet quirky convent leader and Antonio Banderas as a gold-obsessed riverboat captain, adds an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability.
Unlike its predecessors, which revealed the magic of London, “Paddington in Peru” whisks viewers away to the vibrant landscapes of the Amazon rainforest. While this change offers breathtaking visuals and a sense of cultural exploration, it also slightly shifts the film’s tone. Some critics argue that the setting change makes the narrative feel a bit more disjointed and less tightly woven than “Paddington 2,” which is often hailed as one of the best family films of all time. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian notes that while the film is “a perfectly decent bet for the holidays,” it doesn’t quite match the “gag density” of its predecessors. However, what the film may lack in rapid-fire humor, it makes up for in heart. Themes of family, identity and home resonate deeply, making Paddington’s journey feel just as meaningful as ever.
Despite minor criticisms, “Paddington in Peru” has been warmly embraced by audiences, earning an “A” CinemaScore—consistent with the high praise of its predecessors. As of mid-March, the film has grossed an impressive $183.9 million worldwide, including a strong $47.5 million from the UK box office alone, securing the movie a designated place in the ranking of comfort movies.
“Paddington in Peru” might not surpass the near-perfection of “Paddington 2,” but it still delivers an enchanting, feel-good experience packed with heart, humor and adventure. Whether one is a longtime fan of the polite Peruvian bear or discovering him for the first time, this latest chapter is a delightful reminder of why Paddington remains one of cinema’s most beloved characters.