What if you could take the kids to a movie this weekend that promises to teach them valuable lessons about kindness, generosity of spirit, the value of hard work, and the importance of community?
And what if said movie featured the latest technological advances in animation, a diverse and acclaimed cast, and Hugh Grant as the most laughably vainglorious villain ever? And what if there were action, heart and even a moment when you’ll be sure to tear up with emotion and burst into belly laughs?
I’m happy to share that Paddington 2, releasing nationwide today, offers all this and more. Even if you missed the first Paddington installment, don’t lose out on your chance to watch a film without a single parenting cringe-worthy moment that underscores morality and goodness with laugh out loud humor along the way.
At the heart of the action in Paddington 2 is a very special pop-up book (grab yours here) that’s an object of desire for adorable Paddington (voiced by Ben Wishaw), now comfortably living as a part of London’s Brown family, and his new neighbor, the washed-up-formerly-famous-now-dog-food-commercial-star actor Phoenix Buchanan (Hugh Grant).
Their motivations couldn’t be more wildly opposite: Paddington wants the special book as a perfect 100th birthday gift for his beloved Aunt Lucy. He doesn’t hesitate for a moment to undertake odd jobs in his wonderfully diverse community to earn money to purchase the gift. Even though hilarity ensues as Paddington often makes more messes than he cleans up, we learn that working to earn funds so that we can give generously is a great (albeit sticky) thing.
Lisa Hendey on @PaddingtonMovie #Paddington2: It's a Lesson In Generosity that Overflows with Hilarity and Marmalade Share on XOpposing Paddington every step of the way, Phoenix Buchanan is everything Paddington isn’t: narcissistic, greedy and not afraid to do really bad things to get ahold of that book for his own selfish reasons. Hugh Grant is at his finest in this role as the actor we can’t stop hating but also can’t stop watching.
Some of the most heartwarmingly hilarious moments in the film occur when Paddington Bear is wrongfully convicted and sent to prison. In the “big house”, the little bear with the really big spirit makes his mark felt and manages to turn the hearts (and tummies) of a crew of hardened criminals. Maybe conversion actually really is possible if there’s enough marmalade to go around!
I’ll save the spoiler alerts here except to say that you definitely need to stay through the credits for a big ending you won’t want to miss!
Find out more about this delightful film and grab your tickets at www.Paddington.com. Marmalade is optional, but you’ll be craving it after this delightful family romp.
“Paddington 2” is rated PG for some action and mild rude humor.