The Story
“It is perfect,” says Paddington, the talking bear from Peru (voice of Ben Whishaw), “so I’m going to get a job and buy that book.” It’s a collectible, antique pop-up book of famous London monuments and buildings Paddington’s Aunt Lucy (voice of Imelda Staunton) has dreamed of visiting. What better gift for her 100th birthday? That’s the setup for this second, still charming, family-friendly “Paddington” movie. (“Paddington 1,” 2015)
Can Paddington succeed as a barber’s assistant? A window-washer? Who else wants the one-of-a-kind pop-up book? For answers and a really good time at the movies, see “Paddington 2.”
The Actors
Returning for the sequel are Ben Whishaw — Paddington’s subtle, pleasing voice — and his loving, middle-class, adoptive London family, the Browns of Windsor Gardens. Sally Hawkins and Hugh Bonneville are Mary and Henry Brown. She’s got a new hobby — writing, printing and distributing a neighborhood newspaper. He’s stuck in his mid-life crisis. The amazing Hugh Grant plays Phoenix Buchanan, washed-up West-End thespian, reduced to selling canned dog food on the telly, but dreaming of a theatrical come-back in a one-man extravaganza, if he can find enough money. Brendan Gleeson is “Knuckles” McGinty, grumpy prison cook, whose life is transformed by (what else?) Paddington’s miraculous marmalade.
Others in the large and talented cast are Julie Walters as remarkable Mrs. Bird and Jim Broadbent as neighborhood antique dealer Mr. Gruber. Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin are the Brown children, Judy and Jonathan.
Other Comments
“Paddington 2” is that rare phenomenon in movies (like “Godfather 2”), a sequel that’s better than its original. Paul King directed (again) and, with Simon Farnaby, wrote a smart, charming and witty script, based on Michael Bond’s classic children’s books. On the screen, Paddington’s polite little bear with the floppy red hat is as much fun for adults as children. The film’s takeaway — discuss it on your way home — is Paddington’s beloved Aunt Lucy’s advice: “If we’re kind and polite, the world will be alright.”
Rated PG for action and mild rude humor, “Paddington 2” runs 104 charming minutes. Sweet, good-natured and lots of fun, guaranteed. Stay for the credits to see Aunt Lucy’s London scrapbook.
Final Words
“Paddington 2,” family fun,
Better even than “Paddington 1”;
Take Aunt Lucy’s good advice,
If you want the world to be nice.
