Mischief, mayhem and lashings of marmalade. Paddington 2 drops everybody’s favourite bear from Peru into a wild new escapade. We were guests of HarperCollins at a preview screening in October half term. I wondered whether the sequel would live up to the first movie (one of our Top Kids Movie picks). ‘You don’t even like talking animal films,’ Jed noted. Generally speaking, this is true, but Paddington is a very different type of animal. And Paddington 2 is even better than the original.
Now settled in with the Brown family, Paddington is searching for a gift for Aunt Lucy’s birthday. He has his heart set on a rare pop-up book of London. Of course, he doesn’t have any money, so he decides to earn some. This sets up a hilarious ‘Paddington on the job’ sequence that had us nearly choking on popcorn.
Meanwhile, there’s trouble afoot in the form of Phoenix Buchanan (Hugh Grant), a narcissistic actor who’s also after the pop-up book. Unknown to Paddington, the book holds the key to an even bigger treasure hidden somewhere in the city. When the book is stolen, Paddington is fingered for the crime and sentenced to prison.
How he manages to survive jail, clear his name and catch the baddie using nothing but pure heart, marmalade and Aunt Lucy’s hard stare is sheer Paddington magic.
Like his favourite spread, Paddington 2 is deliciously sweet with just the right amount of bite. As in the first film, themes of family, friendship, inclusivity and individuality run strong throughout.
The cast is brilliant as always, but Hugh Grant is a hammy delight. From his first sneer to his final high kick, he’s having an absolute ball and you can’t help but dance to his tune. Cameos from the likes of Joanna Lumley only add to the fun.
With its evocative palette, timeless elements, and gorgeous cinematography, the movie fills you with nostalgia for a London of dreams. I’m not ashamed to admit I cried a little at the end. We are more in love with Paddington than ever. The babes made marmalade sandwiches for breakfast for days afterwards.
Paddington 2 (Babes Review)
Bite size review: ‘It’s about a very loveable bear who’s always accidentally getting himself into trouble. This time poor Paddington has been jailed unfairly.’ (Ezra) ‘Paddington is saving up money to buy Aunt Lucy a pop-up book for her 100th birthday. When a thief takes the book from Mr Gruber’s shop, Paddington has to try and catch him.’ (Jed)
Memorable moment: ‘When he gave the prisoners marmalade.’ (Ezra) ‘When Paddington first tried window cleaning.’ (Jed)
Rating: ‘5 stars!’ (Jed). ’10 out of 10′ (Ezra).
Age Guidance: ‘3+’ (Jed). ‘Any age, I’d say.’ (Ezra)
Message: ‘Teamwork is key to most things.’ (Ezra) ‘Not everyone is what they seem.’ (Jed)
Paddington Pops Up
Paddington has well and truly taken over the city, with Paddinton book installations popping up across London. The boys were thrilled to find one just outside the O2 in Greenwich.
HarperCollins gifted us with a copy of the collector’s edition Paddington Pop-Up London book, featuring 6 pop-up scenes as seen in the movie!
This is a work of art, filled with beautiful illustrations of iconic London attractions. You can look on each page and find Paddington and Aunt Lucy, exactly as the bear imagines it. Jed said, ‘The book is amazing. I can see why Paddington liked it so much!’
HarperCollins has released a range of Paddington 2 books to accompany the movie. They also sent us part of the collection that includes Paddington sticker activity books, a Paddington Little Library, and the Movie Story Book. These books would make a furry special Christmas treat for any Paddington fan!
Paddington 2 is out on general release in UK cinemas this Friday November 10
Bonfire Night 2017 | London Kids Weekend Scoop
