Daniela Coe-McNamara
Staff Writer
Many remember reading the charming British children’s stories of Paddington the bear, with his silly adventures and endearing tales of his exploration through London. What no one expected was director Paul King’s authentic recreation of the adorable Paddington as he comes to life on the big screen in the new film, “Paddington.”
Known for his lovable, huggable charm, Paddington the English storybook bear from the beloved British children’s series is perfectly depicted in his “Paddington” film computer-generated character. Complete with witty jokes and comical catastrophes, “Paddington” also incorporates vivid details in its animation throughout the film, creating a new classic children’s movie for all to enjoy.
Beginning as a book series in 1958, Paddington has been known as the incredible marmalade-loving bear from Peru. In the film adaptation, Paddington is discovered at Paddington Station by the Brown family, who allow him to stay at their house. In the midst of this, Paddington is also discovered by the evil Millicent, a taxidermist of rare animals for the Natural History Museum, and she plots to stuff him for the museum. Faced with the troubles of a new country, new family, and an evil predator, Paddington curiously explores the streets of London with his tattered red hat on his head and a marmalade sandwich hidden beneath.
Some are skeptical of film adaptations and their various revisions to the original storyline and characters, but upon release, “Paddington” honored its literary ancestor by staying true to both the character of Paddington and his adventures that follow. Drawing from many of the books in the series, director Paul King creates a Paddington that remains true to his original adorable bear character while adding the realistic image of a bear prancing around among humans on the streets of London.
The attention to animation detail in this otherwise human-cast movie is a huge addition to the cinematic creativity of “Paddington.” Down to the hairs on the computer-animated Paddington, the movie’s intricate, minor details truly put together the cinematic aspect of “Paddington.” For example, when Paddington is found by the Brown family, he is standing in front of a “Lost & Found” with only the “Lost” portion of it illuminated. Upon the first meeting between Paddington and Mary Brown, the “Found” portion of the sign is immediately lit up, foreshadowing the bear’s future with his newfound family. The subtle yet meaningful details truly give the film its wondrous, childlike charm.
The comedy woven throughout “Paddington” is remarkable in its flexibility between the ages, making it a film for everyone, young and old. With silly, exaggerated disaster scenes like a bathroom scene where Paddington foolishly floods the Brown house, “Paddington” hits the spot for the younger kids in the audience. There are also witty jokes sprinkled throughout the film, coming from the British-accented Londoners, including the friendly Brown family. Ranging from silly mishaps to more intelligent, clever side comments, “Paddington” incorporates comedy for all ages.
The comedic childhood story bear Paddington once again captivates the world with his charming innocence and comedic misadventures, only this time he’s taken over the theaters. The lasting British tale of Paddington is artfully and truthfully captured by “Paddington” creators as they produced a PG children’s film that warms hearts.
“Paddington” is rated PG and playing in theaters nationwide.
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