Feb 14

Feb 14 'Paddington in Peru' film review: Sequel falls short of previous flick's gold standard

Paddington and the Brown family journey deep into the Peruvian jungle in search of a beloved family member in 'Paddington in Peru' (opening in theaters on Feb. 14).

In short: Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) returns to Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Olivia Colman, and Antonio Banderas also star.

The first two Paddington Bear films began on of the unheralded film series of the past decade. Ben Whishaw's gentle performance as the beloved unassuming, polite little bear from darkest Peru acclimating to life in London anchored the lovely little misadventures.

Unfortunately, 'Paddington in Peru' isn't so much a Paddington Bear story as much as it is a story of one family's treasure hunting curse - one that compels the story forward. It also most feels like Paddington was grafted into the treasure hunting plot. Usually this wouldn't work, but Paddington is such an utterly lovable little guy that adding him can only improve any story.

That said, this aforementioned treasure hunt sadly eclipses much of the story's heart - and Paddington's genuine search for his Aunt Lucy just becomes devolves into one man's obsession. This then just gives way to stumbling around in the jungle and a chase sequence. Antonio Banderas is largely wasted in a fine performance of a character whose sole contribution to 'Peru' is merely to push Paddington deeper and deeper into a dangerous jungle. The third act reveal involving another supporting character is completely unearned, which weakens the reveal's energy and surprise.

'Peru' is a step backward for the series after the excellent 'Paddington 2' - but this is an earnest little adventure in its own right. Emily Mortimer effortlessly steps into the role of Mary Brown, replacing Sally Hawkins who played Mrs. Brown in the first two films. Mortimer exudes the same enthusiasm and kindness that Hawkins established. 'Peru' gently explores the bear's mysterious origins, but this largely overshadowed by the plot-driven elements defined by greed and obsession.

Final verdict: 'Paddington in Peru' is a pleasant little picturesque adventure for the iconic bear. A nice little sequel that explores Paddington's origins that never quite hits the same emotional depths as previous entries in the series.