'Paddington in Peru (2024)' isn't as good as 'Paddington 2 (2017)', but it isn't as big a step down as some early reactions led me to believe. For the most part, this is still an entertaining and delightfully polite experience that's as pleasant as it is brisk. Although the more standard adventure narrative is less idiosyncratic than the vignette approach of the first two pictures, it still works well enough in this context and allows its lovable characters to continue to charm even as they're subjected to the classic sequel thing of being taken out of their natural habitat to explore the as-yet-unknown origins of the main character. There are plenty of funny moments and the film is good-natured from its very first frame. It's a really nice movie, and sometimes that's all you need.
What it does lack in comparison to its predecessors is a strong emotional core. Even though a handful of its moments are moving, the piece isn't especially poignant and it isn't going to get your tear ducts working. Plus, some of its character work is rather superficial and, as my brother pointed out, almost feels like an obligatory afterthought. The narrative in general is rather conventional and follows a specific formula almost to a tee. It's fairly predictable and feels relatively generic, almost like it was retrofit for Paddington after its basic beats had already been pencilled in.
Despite its few issues, there's still more than enough to like about the feature. Its lovable cast is as strong as ever, with some delightful newcomers (Antonio Banderas and Olivia Coleman) chewing the scenery with glee whenever that's what's needed. The special effects are consistently good, believably bringing the eponymous bear to life in such a way that it's strange to think he's never actually in the same space as the other characters. When he naturally doesn't turn up at the red carpet, it feels like someone is missing. The film is light and bouncy; it truly flies by and is generally a lot of fun. It's marmalade-packed with gags, both visual and dialogue-based, and scenes of slapstick action that sweeps you off your feet. It's a really good time.
Ultimately, this is a perfectly respectable addition to its series that's well-made and enjoyable throughout. It's unfortunate that it follows 'Paddington 2 (2017)', as there's an argument to be made that's the best - or, at least, most universally appealing - picture of all time, because this is genuinely a great family film. If you're expecting the best film of all time (again) or even the second best film of all time, you'll obviously be disappointed. However, it's a rock-solid effort that's charming and entertaining in pretty much each and every scene. It's a lot better than plenty of similar fare. If you don't go in expecting a miracle, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.
