Paddington Bear, the cuddly marmalade powered manifestation of kindness returns for his third feature, this time exiting his home in the UK for a new locale in Paddington In Peru. Don’t worry, because even though his family, The browns, are also at a transitional point, they’ll be following him on his journey. Sadly, director Paul King is not returning as director for the third feature, so if you were expecting him to somehow top what he achieved in Paddington 2, he opted instead to direct Wonka. I don’t know if that puts us at a huge disadvantage, but the change in locale certainly makes for a shift in dynamic in the third outing, which likely means a finale to this trilogy not quite as satisfying as… well…marmalade.

Sure there’s the typical whimsy of a talking bear who exudes kindness going on a rather unexpected journey to find his Aunt that has gone missing, as well as interesting cast additions like Antonio Banderas and Olivia Coleman. Juxtaposed against Paddington’s journey are the Browns, who all for various reasons have decided to chase down their beloved family addition. Along the way, promises of treasure cloud judgement, a conspiracy that suggests Paddington’s Aunt may be in danger, and the ever present feeling that something is watching them in the jungle. Perhaps something friendly? if not, they are likely to be won over by Paddington’s trademark charm.

Family, what it is, and the differences in dynamics, is a huge theme of the film. Not only is Paddington torn between The Brown family and his dear Aunt Lucy, but both Banderas and Coleman have narratives that feel suggestive of making better parenting choices, and the reveal at the end of who is watching Paddington seals the deal on this core idea.

Still, it’s my least favorite of the entries, perhaps because the film lacks Paul King and his terrific direction, or perhaps because Paddington is now turning into a character that travels.there’s something cute about Paddington affecting those in his own part of England, but when he starts riding the old transplant films like Ernest Goes To Africa, or Madea Goes to Jail, it seems like Paddington becomes less grounded, and more like “have bear will make money”. Will a fourth one take him to space? Hollywood? Atlantis?

Banderas is really fun in his role, and fully committed to the vibe of his good/bad guy role. Coleman is also fun, and likely just happy to not be competing for an Oscar. the audio description brings the jungle to life, from the trees that may not be trees, to the perils along the way, the track does a nice job of complimenting the bear that needed to be taken care of.

My final thought is that with all the meanness and abject cruelty we seem to be witnessing on a regular basis, even a pretty good Paddington film is still something that propagates empathy and kindness, which are in seemingly short supply.

Fresh: Final Grade: B, Audio Description: B+