Review of Paddington 2 (2017) by Matthew D — 23 Apr 2018

One of 2018's best movies!

Paul King has proven that he is a visually creative director that can continue to capture the magic of the first wondrous Paddington film. While there is nothing new under Paddington's hat in this sequel, it is as delightful as the first feature that will surely fascinate children of all ages. Paddington 2 is a perfect choice to watch with your family as kids will love Paddington's charms and quirks, while the parents will appreciate the more obscure references and clever humor. There is enough slap stick for the younger ones, jokes for the teenagers, and wit for the adults. Paddington 2 is as well rounded as the pudgy bear himself.

King directs with a swift style that is all together charming in his quaint depiction of London. His penchant for symmetrical shots is reminiscent of indie darling director Wes Anderson, while remaining original to King's vision. The clever quick edits and set up for later ingenious punchlines reminded me of Edgar Wright's directorial method. King pays tribute to his contemporary directors while contributing his own sweet approach to crafting a picture. I expect great things from Paul King.

A pleasant surprise in Paddington 2 is that this movie works with heavy political and social commentary underlining the film's moral statement. While the first film stood for immigrants moving to London with the benefits of adoption and goodwill, its follow-up finds itself defending human decency, prison reform, as well as the cleansing of Hollywood's perverse individuals. There are many clear allusions to unfair judgments, flawed police work, corrupt politicians, cruel prison conditions, wrongful convictions, and false actors. Paddington 2 is a sound scolding on society's errs in its own way. I thought this commentary underneath Paddington 2 works well for the adult viewers, while the kids watching will remain oblivious to the seedier underbelly of modern society.

Additionally, the acting is superbly cast. The stand outs include the lovely Sally Hawkins, stuffy Hugh Bonneville, fastidious Peter Capaldi, devious Hugh Grant, and the ever grumpy Brendan Gleeson rounded out this excellent ensemble. There is a slew of surprising cameos that occur with resplendent results.

In all, Paddington 2 adds another entertaining installment into the Paddington franchise that I think most audiences will find fun.