The No. 1 Family Movie of the Year

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Without tarnishing his charisma or image, director Paul King successfully brings this beloved children’s character, Paddington, to the 21st century. 

Cute, cuddly and very British, Paddington hits the sweet note for family-friendly adventure fun. He’s irresistible! From his old red hat and nifty blue duffle coat to his obsession with marmalade, young or old, this is a film everyone will enjoy. Based on the book series from author Michael Bond, this talking bear from Peru who is adopted from a London family made his first appearance in 1958. Producer David Heyman (Harry Potter) helps craft this delightful treat to the big screen and savers the magic from these classic children’s books. 

Paddington, voice by a heartfelt Ben Whishaw, is introduced with his aunt and uncle living the bear life in the rainforest of Peru. Then, bam, an earthquake hits and Paddington's home is gone. It’s off to the cargo ship where he wants to start a new beginning in life. The bear comes to Paddington Station (hint his name) and is temporarily taken in by the Brown family. Paddington meets the rambunctious dad, Henry (Hugh Bonneville, Downton Abbey), the lively wife, Mary (a wonderful Sally Hawkins), and their two children, Judy (Madeleine Harris) and Jonathan (Samuel Joslin). It’s funny, adorable and its eye-candy splendor frame the film throughout. Nicole Kidman also makes an entrance as the Cruella De Vil with a love for stuffing things. A taxidermist, who wants to make Paddington her next stuffed collection on the wall. 

Infused with pop culture and British undertones, this physical comedy reminded me of the Marx brothers or Wes Anderson. Paddington dazzles everywhere on screen, without over doing his CGI personnel and captures the audience’s heartstrings. The film stays true to this bear's roots and in the end will put a big smile on your face. High and flying over London with his umbrella, Paddington soars! This cuddly bear also underlines an important message about family and how they come in all different shapes and sizes. “Families stick together.” This bear receives four jars of marmalade! I can’t wait to see Paddington's charismatic presence again.

Paddington is rated PG (Parental Guidance). For mild action and rude humor.