MOVIE REVIEW: PADDINGTON 2

Settled in with the Brown family, Paddington the bear is a popular member of the community who spreads joy and marmalade wherever he goes. One fine day, he spots a pop-up book in an antique shop -- the perfect present for his beloved aunt's 100th birthday. When a thief steals the prized book, Paddington embarks on an epic quest to unmask the culprit before Aunt Lucy's big celebration.

Director: Paul King

Cast: Hugh Grant, Brendan Gleeson, Sally Hawkins, Ben Whishaw, Hugh Bonneville

Release Date: Jan 12, 2018

Rated PG for some action and mild rude humor

Runtime: 1 hr. 44 min.

Genres: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Review:

The first Paddington was a surprisingly fun adaptation of the classic children’s book.  It was the rare film that actually captured the spirit of the character instead of just mining the source material for a quick buck.  Having lighting strike twice seemed like a long shot but Paul King’s lovingly made sequel continued the first film’s legacy.  It’s nearly impossible not to be charmed by the story from the start.  It’s the best kind of kid’s film, one that never panders to its audience and has a tangible heart beat.  Ben Whishaw is just a perfect in this sequel as the titular bear, making him endearing and lovable.  The returning cast members like Hugh Bonneville and Sally Hawkins are solid throughout with Hawkins getting more to do in the second half of the film.   Hugh Grant is clearly having a ball as Phoenix Buchanan, the villain in this chapter.  Buchanan’s character is a lot more memorable than the first film’s adversary which is to the sequel’s benefit.  Add in a fun supporting turn by Bredan Gleenson and you’ve got the rare kids sequel that improves on original while never losing the spirit of the characters.        

A