Paddington 2, widely hailed by fans as one of the greatest family films ever made, airs on BBC1 tonight at 7:10pm. The 2017 production has earned a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers continuing to post glowing reviews online.
A beloved sequel with a near-perfect score
The film, directed by Paul King and based on the British children's book series by Michael Bond, follows the cherished bear on an even grander adventure than the original 2014 film. It blends live action with animated comedy, as Paddington is falsely accused and imprisoned for a burglary he had no part in. The Brown family spare no effort in tracking down the true culprit and establishing his innocence.
While confined behind bars, the bear's warm and gentle nature gradually wins over his hardened fellow inmates, who help him in a daring escape attempt. Audiences are kept on tenterhooks, hoping he evades capture while the genuine thief faces justice.
Critical praise and box office success
Upon its release, Paddington 2 garnered widespread critical praise and received three BAFTA nominations: Outstanding British Film, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor for Hugh Grant. During its opening weekend in the UK, it took $10.9 million at the box office, considerably more than the first film.
The stellar British ensemble 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.
Viewer reactions and legacy
One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer writes: "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 said: "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."
Reflecting on the touching scenes, one viewer wrote: "A heartwarming and beautiful movie that is not only entertaining for kids but for adults as well. There are many funny jokes throughout the movie which are really well done. But the best part is easily the emotional connection between Paddington and his aunt Lucy. Which drives the whole movie and makes it so enjoyable to watch."
Paddington 2 captivated audiences worldwide to such an extent that a third instalment, Paddington in Peru, arrived in cinemas in 2024.
