Who could have predicted that Paddington Bear would have become one of the most beloved cinematic icons of the 21st century? In the 11 years since the marmalade-obsessed bear first entered our hearts with 2014’s Paddington, he’s become a fixture of the most acclaimed family franchise of our time, thanks to the magical touch of director Paul King.
Through the first two Paddington films, King elevated the wholesome talking bear into a Buster Keaton-like folk figure whose innate sense of whimsy and kindness could reform even the most uptight grump. Which made King’s departure from the franchise, to direct the very Paddington-like Wonka, so concerning. Could the third and final Paddington film do justice to our beloved bear, especially after the terrific Paddington 2 brought the franchise to stratospheric new heights? The answer is both yes and no. But even the weakest Paddington movie will make for the most joyful and delightful film you’ll see this year.
