I don’t watch a lot of family-friendly children’s films any more but I’m glad I spent some time watching Paddington, the story of how an English-speaking bear from “darkest Peru” arrives in London searching for a new family.  I was not expecting a literate, imaginative, clever, fun romp.  Sentimentality, sure, but its moments of heartwarmth are earned through excellent scriptwriting and positive performances.

Director Paul King worked on the script and the production of the film for five years, during which many aspects evolved and changed, including Paddington’s voice actor (was to be Colin Firth, is Ben Whishaw).  What remains steadfast and true is the English essence of the story, even though this is a Hollywood production.  Paddington is a beloved figure in Britain, evidently, and this movie honors that popularity without trying to turn the story into an American one.

I’m not sure why the people of London simply accept a bear who speaks perfect English without question, but that adds to the charm and whimsy of its story.  And then Nicole Kidman pops in as the taxidermist who wants to stuff poor old Paddington and add him to her collection in the British Museum.  It’s up to the Brown family, with whom the bear is staying until he can find the explorer who taught him and his bear family to speak, to rescue Paddington and once and for all embrace him as their own.

Kids will enjoy the slapstick trouble Paddington causes in the Browns’ household, while the grownups should enjoy the film’s clever dialogue, interesting visual effects, comic moments and nostalgic elements.  Its entertainment factors are very high, and almost everything works exactly as it should.  I found Paddington to be quite a nice cinematic surprise.  ☆ ☆ ☆.  6 March 2015.