Paddington 2, the 2017 family film that fans have called the 'best film ever made', is set to air on BBC1 tonight at 7:10pm. The movie holds a near-perfect 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is widely praised as a heartwarming modern classic.
A beloved sequel with a star-studded cast
Directed by Paul King and based on Michael Bond's iconic British children's book series, the film is the sequel to the 2014 original. It combines live action and animation, following Paddington as he is framed and imprisoned for a burglary he did not commit. The Brown family works to find the real culprit and prove his innocence.
While in prison, Paddington's kind nature wins over his fellow inmates, who help him plan an escape. Viewers are left hoping he avoids capture and that the true criminal is caught so Paddington can find peace.
Critical acclaim and box office success
Upon release, Paddington 2 received critical acclaim and three BAFTA nominations for Outstanding British Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor for Hugh Grant. In its first UK weekend, it grossed $10.9 million, surpassing the first film's opening.
The all-star British cast includes Hugh Bonneville as Henry Brown, Sally Hawkins as Mary Brown, Brendan Gleeson, Julie Walters, Peter Capaldi, Hugh Grant, and Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington.
Fans praise emotional depth and humour
One Rotten Tomatoes review reads: "One of my all-time favourites. Genuinely one of the only films where the 2nd one is better than the first! Really funny, bound to put you in a good mood afterwards."
Another viewer wrote: "The whimsical humour is laugh-out-loud funny, and the film is beautiful to look at - colourful, detailed, and full of visual surprises. The actors are all very appealing. At times the humour hints at Wes Anderson, which is a very good thing. A first-rate feel-good movie."
A third described it as "a heartwarming and beautiful movie that is not only entertaining for kids but for adults as well," adding that the emotional connection between Paddington and his aunt Lucy drives the film.
A third film, Paddington in Peru, was released in 2024. Paddington 2 airs on BBC1 at 7:10pm tonight.
