“Mrs Brown says that in London everyone is different, and that means anyone can fit in.”
What could be the cure to those feelings of angst generated by the many ills of the world? Answer: A small, fuzzy, brown, marmalade-loving bear that wears a navy blue duffle coat and a red hat. Meet Paddington, who is looking for a home in the sprawling metropolis of London after fleeing from his home in Darkest Peru. The bear manages to find refuge with the Browns, a wonderfully bohemian family. The mother, Mrs. Mary Brown, played by Sally Hawkins, falls in love with yet another anthropomorphic animal, although this time platonically. She provides the warm, gentle hug of love and affection that Paddington needs to begin to feel comfortable in this strange world, far from Darkest Peru.
The film does not just offer a comical, kid-friendly tale of a bear far from home: it also provides a heart-aching commentary on what it is to be human. Themes of parenthood, anxiety, and innocence (to name a few) are explored through fantastical Chaplin-esque moments of jeopardy and typical British dry wit, providing both laughter and tears. Rather than just being a ‘kid’s film’, it is instead a film for adults that children can watch too. Big Pixar vibes. Paddington is not a bear for children but rather a friend for all, and hopefully, the bear that brought such a smile to my face can also be a friend to you.
Available on Netflix