The third film in the “Paddington” franchise is set for release. Titled “Paddington in Peru,” the movie continues the bear’s story with a new high-stakes adventure. Paddington travels through the Amazon rainforest to search for his missing Aunt Lucy.
First-time director Dougal Wilson takes over from Paul King. King directed the first two films, which were praised for their heart and humor. Wilson called following those films “one of the hardest acts.” He hopes to maintain what audiences love about Paddington while taking the story in a new international direction.
The film features Oscar winner Olivia Colman as a guitar-playing nun running a home for retired bears. Antonio Banderas also joins the cast in an undisclosed role. Returning cast includes Hugh Bonneville as Mr. Brown. Emily Mortimer replaces Sally Hawkins as Mrs. Brown.
To honor Queen Elizabeth II after her passing, the movie includes a brief scene of her Platinum Jubilee sketch with Paddington from earlier this year. Producers received permission from the royal family to include the tribute.
Despite challenges like Wilson’s broken hip and actors’ strikes, the $60 million budget is the franchise’s largest. Some filming took place on location in Peru, including at Machu Picchu. Over 668 people spent 36.6 million hours bringing the film to life through animation and visual effects.
Cultural impacts of Paddington include Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy dubbing the bear in his country. The character also went viral after actor Nicolas Cage expressed his love for “Paddington 2.” Producer Rosie Alison says the team works to protect what audiences love about the kind-hearted bear.
With its heartwarming story and message of empathy, “Paddington in Peru” looks to continue spreading joy globally when it releases. Paddington remains a symbol of qualities desperately needed in the world.
