Our marmalade-loving, furry friend is back. After seven years since the last Paddington rendition, Paddington in Peru hit theaters on February 14. The film’s director, Dougal Wilson, is a relative newcomer to the scene, as he is primarily known for advertisements, Apple shorts, and music videos, so the Howl was eager to see if he captured the emotions and lightheartedness of the popular original film. 

Paddington in Peru continues the tale of Paddington 2 which follows the origin of the 1958 children’s book written by Michael Bond. This addition is the third part of the trilogy, embracing the youthful story of a cartoon bear. 

The movie marks the return of the seemingly normal, middle-class Brown family, which took in Paddington as a lost little bear on the streets of London. Still the youngest of his human family, the storyline develops as the Browns attempt to reconnect in accordance with their matriarch’s wishes. Simply put, Mrs. Brown believes that the family doesn’t spend significant time together.

All of this changes once when the Browns arrive at the Home For Retired Bears. They are shocked to find out that Paddington’s Aunt Lucy has gone missing. She is presumed to be on a mysterious quest, which advances the rising action of the film. Unsure of what to do, Paddington locates the map that Aunt Lucy drew for her travels, and the family decides to follow the path up the river to their eventual destination, Rumi Rock.

Along the way, Paddington faces moral issues as those at the retirement home wish to leave her fate to the proper authorities. But Paddington’s flashbacks remind him of a time when his aunt spared his life, causing him to realize his responsibility in returning the favor. In doing so, the family makes their way into an uncharted jungle in search of Paddington’s ancestry. 

Despite challenges throughout the story arc, the young cub does not let others’ opinions obstruct his search. His determination is palpable, as he broadcasts the love he feels for his aunt. Motivated by this affection, the Brown family continues their search while overcoming physical and emotional hurdles.

The movie proves to be appropriately complex to its young audience, as characters struggle with greed and dishonesty. However, Paddington perseveres by clinging to hope and his family.

With a run time of one hour and 46 minutes, Paddington succeeds in keeping the audience in anticipation, while immersing viewers in the location and culture of Peru. The movie creates a theatrical foundation for Paddington 4.

Although Wilson is relatively new to the full-length film industry, the Howl recognizes his success in capturing the emotions of the audience through the ongoing lightheartedness of the original Paddington.

4/5 stars