Paddington (2014) Movie Review

Hollywood has a common belief that the best way to update classic cartoon characters is by making a CGI-human hybrid film. While it has proven well financially with the likes of Scooby Doo, The Smurfs and Alvin and the Chipmunks, they don't tend to be overly enjoyed by audiences or by those fans of the original shows. That hasn't stopped Studio Canal though, as they bring the classic Peruvian bear onto the big screen for the first time in what could be a disastrous attempt to make him mainstream. With a troubled production process, with Colin Firth infamously leaving the role of Paddington, promotional images that became a meme, trailers which came across as uncharacteristic, and a recent upset with the BBFC over its PG classification due to "mild sex references"; it was scheduled to be a disaster. But surprisingly, it isn't. 

The story, as expected, is relatively simple, as the titular bear (whose real name we humans can't work around to pronouncing correctly) goes to Britain to look for a new home, believing he'd be welcome there following a visit from an explorer to his Aunt Lucy in the 1940s. There, he gets adopted by the Browns - or rather, Mrs. Brown (Sally Hawkins) - and mishaps ensue. There's also a plot revolving around taxidermist Nicole Kidman for the necessary antagonist, which does surprisingly work despite its otherwise gruesome nature - particularly for a family film. It's a simple premise that does the film well whilst keeping to the source material.  

For a number of critics, a comedy succeeds if it can make you laugh 6 times or more. Paddington hits that mark within minutes of starting and stays continuously funny throughout. Whether it be recreations some of his more infamous antics such as the bathroom scene or some newer material, it's a barrel of laughs from the deepest areas of Peru to the middle of London (and back again!). As for the "mild sex references", it's mild enough for kids to understand but not to its full capacity, but utterly hilarious stuff by Hugh Bonneville and Simon Farnaby (best known for his roles in Horrible Histories).  

When it was officially announced that Ben Whishaw would be the new voice of Paddington Bear, there was some worry over the casting as being far too off when compared to previous renditions in television by Michael Hordern, Charlie Adler or even the more recent Jonathan Kydd. But surprisingly, despite those early criticisms, he really suits the role, and with footage of on-set filming it really elevates his performance. Hugh Bonneville is also very enjoyable in his role as the stern Mr. Brown, whilst Sally Hawkins plays a very considerate Mrs. Brown. The two child actors are strong for the limited personalities they're given, as is Julie Walters as Mrs. Bird - who does have a hilarious segment in the third act but is on standby beforehand. Peter Capaldi is enjoyable as the neighbouring Mr. Curry (with the best use of Lionel Richie's 'Hello' in recent memory), and Matt Lucas' brief stint as a taxi driver and Jim Broadbent as an antiques seller bring in a good amount of laughs. Nicole Kidman is the weakest of the characters, but there is some enjoyability with her as she's clearly having a lot of fun with the role. 

Paddington is an absolute delight. Despite initial concerns, it all worked out fine for the popular bear thanks to its strong wit, style and story. Actors are mostly strong, cameos come thick and fast, and its short running time means it never drags. It's fun for all the family, and one of the few renditions of classic characters that doesn't fall flat. 8/10.