Review of Paddington 2 (2017) by Patricia W — 20 Mar 2018

Paddington is saving up to buy his Aunt a very special present for her 100th birthday. When it's suddenly stolen it's up to Paddington's new found family to help him find the culprit and clear his name.

As with the first instalment this a lighthearted, enjoyable and thoroughly British film. It continues to boast a star studded cast and Paddington himself remains unwaveringly sweet and sincere and far too pure for this world.

The acting is excellent with Ben Whishaw reprising his role as Paddington and Sally Hawkins and Hugh Bonneville reprising their roles as Mary and Henry Brown. Hugh Grant is an excellent addition as Phoenix Buchanan, an eccentric actor fallen from fame that Grant fully throws himself into and Jim Broadbent is solid as Mr Gruber, a shop keeper with a slightly dodgy accent.

This film is very well paced and immediately hits the ground running with action, slapstick and verbal comedy and a narrative that continues to push forward whilst also allowing for sad and more sentimental moments.

The CGI also continues to impress with Paddington plush fur and subtle expressions and enhancing numerous scenes and backgrounds that gives the film a somewhat fairytale feeling. The pop up scene in particular has very charming animation that is somewhat reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh.

There are one or two scenes with some poor use of green screens and there are some plots holes and inconsistencies here and there. However there are no glaring issues with this film and it's easy to suspend your disbelief and just enjoy the ride.

Simply put this is a lovely, family friendly film with a great mixture of action and comedy that may even bring a little tear to your eye.