Paddington is an endearing and heartwarming fun for all ages. The story and the premise may feel simplistic and childish. Yet it offers enough excitement with a beautiful mix of slapstick humor and analogy on modern society. The main character, the marmalade-loving Peruvian bear 'Paddington' is sent to London by his Aunt after an earthquake hits their home. There is something more to these bears - they talk! These bears were discovered by an British explorer many years ago who told them they were always welcome in London. But now in the modern day when Paddington finally arrives in London hardly finds anyone welcoming him at a busy train station. Finally, some kind generous family (Browns) help talking him to their home temporarily so that they can find an appropriate place for him later. As expected, the humor is composed of how Paddington, a bear tries to fit in the modern human setting and the end is obviously going to be predictable. Still the charm and innocence of the CGI- bear keeps you hooked. The set-design was splendid and well-detailed reminding of Wes Anderson's work. The subtle take on human behavior is clearly evident. I really loved the sequence where Paddington gauges the characters in the Brown family one by one. You could easily relate to the life-like characterization. It would have been great if the story had not followed the conventional path in the second half (which is quite weak compared to the fresh first-half). The predictable goofy-action climax was quite disappointing. But, overall Paddington was great fun and entertainment. Not only that, you will learn a thing or two from the extremely adorable bear.
RATING: [3.5/5]
RATING: [3.5/5]