As a kid, I read a lot of Michael Bond’s Paddington books and I loved the TV series narrated by Michael Hordern. I approached the 2014 film with some trepidation but I was so happy that it caught the spirit of the books and delivered a message about inclusivity without being preachy. This sequel provides the same joyous feeling as the warmth for the characters is evident for all to see. The lovable bear is in trouble once again when he is falsely convicted of stealing a valuable book from Mr Gruber’s shop and has to clear his name.
Once again, Paddington comes to life on the screen thanks to some tremendous special effects and I didn’t for one moment think that he wasn’t real! Ben Whishaw is the perfect person to voice him, bringing a mixture of innocence and ingenuity. If anything there are too many talented people in the supporting cast, giving the likes of Ben Miller, Jessica Hynes and Jim Broadbent little time to shine. Sally Hawkins, in what could be the slight role of Mrs Brown though, is captivating and I also enjoyed the dry Hugh Bonneville as her husband and Madeleine Harris as the resourceful daughter.
As great as the characters are the plot doesn’t quite match up to the first film but Hugh Grant hams it up superbly as the villain.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10