Everything we know about Paddington in Peru
Ben Whishaw is back as the voice of Britain's most loved bear
Paddington and his marmalade are finally back on the big screen in Paddington in Peru. The beloved bear has become a national treasure after affecting several generations of children – and let's face it, adults – with his heartwarming demeanour and optimistic outlook on life.
But he hasn't been seen since 2017's Paddington 2, aside from a memorable appearance at the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022. To mark his cinematic return, here's everything you need to know about Paddington in Peru...
How can I watch Paddington in Peru?
Paddington in Peru is out in UK cinemas now, but fans in North America will have to wait until 17 January 2025 for its big-screen release. The film has a runtime of 106 minutes, making it the longest Paddington installment to date.
Is there a trailer for Paddington in Peru?
Paddington's back. The trailer for Paddington in Peru dropped in June 2024 and in it, we found the bear embarking on an adventure to his homeland. However, once he and the Browns arrive in Peru, Paddington is troubled to discover that his Aunt Lucy is missing. To find her, the Browns will have to set off on a trek deep into the wild wilderness.
Watch the trailer below:
What happens and who's in the cast?
The plot synopsis for Paddington in Peru reveals: "The highly anticipated third Paddington film brings Paddington's story to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears.
"With the Brown family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through the Amazon rainforest and to the mountain peaks of Peru."
Ben Whishaw returns as the voice of Paddington, while The Crown star Imelda Staunton reprises her role as Aunt Lucy.
Hugh Bonneville is back as Paddington's foster father Henry Brown, while Emily Mortimer takes over the part of matriarch Mary Brown from Sally Hawkins. The couple's children Judy and Jonathan are played once again by Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin.
Harry Potter's Julie Walters portrays housekeeper Mrs. Bird, and Bridget Jones actor Jim Broadbent plays antiques dealer Samuel Gruber.
Oscar winner Olivia Colman joins the franchise as the Reverend Mother, a guitar-playing nun who runs the Home for Retired Bears.
Puss in Boots' Antonio Banderas plays riverboat captain Hunter Cabot, and newcomer Carla Tous plays his daughter Gina. She replaced Rachel Zegler on the film after the West Side Story star was unable to take part due to the Hollywood strike.
Who directed Paddington in Peru?
Paul King, who helmed the first two Paddington films, stepped out of the director's chair for Paddington in Peru. He handed the reigns to Dougal Wilson, who is best known for directing several John Lewis Christmas adverts, and music videos for artists such as Coldplay, LCD Soundsystem and Jarvis Cocker.
In a statement, King said: "Dougal's work is never less than astounding: funny, beautiful, heartfelt, imaginative, and totally original. Aunt Lucy once asked us to 'please look after this bear.' I know Dougal will do so admirably."
Wilson admitted taking over from King was a "massive responsibility", adding: "As a huge fan of the first two films, I am very excited (if not a little intimidated) to be continuing the story of Paddington."
King served as executive producer and wrote the story with his collaborators Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton. The screenplay was penned by Burton, Jon Foster and James Lamont, who scripted Paddington's Jubilee sketch with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Paddington in Peru is out in UK cinemas now