Debuting in English children’s books more than 70 years ago, Paddington Bear has always been a classic character: a polite face of family, innocence and earnest effort. These aspects are highlighted and expertly adapted in the third film of the Paddington series, Paddington in Peru.

The film follows Paddington’s journey — or rather, his return — to his homeland of Peru in pursuit of his Aunt Lucy, who has gone missing. While the first two films may clarify the story’s exposition, this installment does not require viewers to have seen the earlier entries to enjoy it for what it is.

As for what it is? Paddington in Peru is a fun, heartwarming and positively delightful film leaving you with much of the whimsy that Paddington himself carries throughout the film. Most of the film’s joy is derived from Paddington’s whimsical charm as a character and as someone who found the first two films endearing, I highly recommend it for anyone else who enjoyed them as well.

A major grievance some viewers have with the film is that the story is a bit lackluster and fragmented, a complaint with merit. With a runtime of just over an hour and a half, the film may be a bit overwhelming as it tries to touch on themes of identity crisis, migrant culture and family while maintaining its comedic nature. There are about five different plotlines simultaneously throughout the film and for filmgoers interested in an overarching, intense narrative that grabs your attention, the film might disappoint. 

However, the Paddington series has never been about overarching and serious stories. I strongly doubt that most viewers came into the theatre looking for that. 

Paddington in Peru is not a thriller. It will not leave you on the edge of your seat, and it will not be competing to be your favorite action-packed film this year. Paddington in Peru is also not a film that takes itself very seriously. It will not leave you sobbing in the theatre, nor will it leave you in shock or rage. 

But for what it sets out to do, it excels and very well lives up to its predecessors. 

As someone who is not a film aficionado or even interested in films as a whole, Paddington in Peru delighted me in a simple way that not any media has for quite a while. It is full of childlike whimsy and oozes charm with every minute of its runtime. 

Whether you are looking for a heartwarming, fun film for your family, lighthearted emotion, or just need a break from the world and have two hours to spare, Paddington in Peru is the film for you. Paddington in Peru is a simple, charming film that will fill you with joy and whimsy and, if nothing else, will absolutely bring a smile to your face.

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