Paddington (2014) Reviews

• Quintessentially British, Irresistibly Warm

  CalRhys2014-12-10

  I have to state this before continuing with this review, prior to seeing this I was very reluctant and hesitant as to what I was due to view. After growing up hearing the stories and watching the animated tales of Paddington Bear, I was unsure as to whether a CGI-heavy live- action tale could really establish a story that portrays the bear in all his charm, well my predictions were woefully inaccurate. 'Paddington' is a very well-executed adaptation of the titular bear for a 21st century audience. From the producers of Harry Potter, 'Paddington' delivers a family-friendly and charming atmosphere whilst conveying an endearing and gloriously comedic tale about a bear and his adventures in London. One of the late and great films of the year, Paul King's irresistibly warm story creates a sense of nostalgia whilst boasting a quintessentially British feel and pitch-perfect humour that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

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• An Instant Classic

  talentgirl2014-11-28

  I loved it. It didn't matter to me that myself and my husband were watching it without the cover of escorting children, family movies are probably one of the most satisfying things out there to watch when done as well as this one was. Cute is an understatement to describe Paddington Bear: he is simply warm and cuddly and I fell for him wholeheartedly. I may even add PB to my Christmas list of wants, even at my great old age. Adult comedies can engender one or two laughs, if you're lucky, but this family fun trip had me and the audience laughing throughout (apart from the odd serious moments where it wouldn't have been right to do so). Everything was right: the colours, the cast (except I'm not a fan of Nicole Kidman: her pert nose, pert bum or whispered speech), and again...I was entranced by the great warmth of the entire piece. Folks, go see this one, whatever your age, with kids or without. You'll all love it, I'm sure. My hubby hadn't wanted to see it, but he thoroughly enjoyed it. Highly recommended. I'm sure it will grace many TV screens at many Christmases for many years to come.

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• Watch out for the world's most wanted bear

  appledreams42015-01-02

  OK, I must admit when I looked at the film poster, I had asked myself: How could a feature length film about a British family adopting a CGI talking bear be good? That's why I went into the theater with zero expectation, and Paddington proves to be a huge surprise. As soon as I walked into the theater, I could see I'm the oldest one (excluding those parents), and I did feel a tiny bit embarrassed - sitting alone surrounded by hyperactive children. But then, as the film goes, I found out watching Paddington is one of the best decisions I've made recently, and that is not exaggerating, because as I watched that little talking bear roam around London, I found the inner child inside of me who's been lost for quite some time. I have never laughed and screamed so freely along with those children and I feel totally not out of place. Needless to say, Paddington is fabulously British, and as a Potterhead (proudly saying so), I recognized a LOT of familiar faces (and voices). Jim Broadbent, Julie Walters, Imelda Staunton, even Michael Gambon, and so many more other spectacular actors and actresses are housed in this 95-minutes film. They are one of the major reasons the film is so appealing. The screenplay of the film is impeccably crafted with totally hilarious, literally LOL jokes (some written particularly for children, and some more naughtier ones I'm sure only the parents would get), and also with moments of warmth so sincerely written that my heart has never been so molten before. Paddington truly is a surprising movie, and it surely is the best non-animated family film made in 2014. It is ridiculous yet believable. Unlike the increasing amount of farces that call themselves "comedies", Paddington is truly hilarious and heartwarming with a story that is so rich and compelling. And I would recommend Paddington to anyone, and if you have not watched it yet, go watch it and you will find it's the best decision you've ever made.

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• An immediate classic!

  scooterberwyn2015-01-17

  This is, without doubt, one of the funniest and most heartwarming films that I expect to see in my life. A true "Family" film, it should appeal to children of all ages as well as to adults who are still children at heart. The cast is perfection, and the director has been truly inspired. The extra touches in both sight and sound that he brings to the film are brilliant - but I shan't specify what they are, for fear of spoiling the surprises. The film walks a fine line being cute at times, but it never becomes cloying or overly sweet. Paddington lives. I quickly forgot that he was a CGI and simply accepted him as another part of the cast. Even if you have no children to take with you, you should see this film.

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• Heartening

  fluturoj2016-07-28

  Real-life link: Just for the record, I have never experienced that kind of snow in London and I have lived here for a very long time. So that is way beyond reality (tho I wish it will someday snow like that). However, one very true fact about London is that indeed everyone is different and because of that everyone can fit in and feel like home. The magic of London I guess. What the movie emphasised on was dealing with accepting that you are different and feeling comfortable with it. Sad however, to see that Paddington was only able to do that when the Browns did suggesting that the only way to be comfortable with who you are, is of those around you are. It is in many cases true but it shouldn't be and movie developed around this suggestion are indeed not helping to change that. The movie is very hear-warming. Warm family atmosphere and a lot of scenes that made me laugh out loud (literally). Acting is great as well, with Hugh Bonneville being amazing as always. And the editing is also not a usual one which makes the movie great. London is also nicely portrayed and it was a pleasure to see some very familiar places in the movie. To conclude, I would definitely recommend this to everyone (yes, including adults).

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