Paddington in Peru brings everyone’s favourite marmalade-loving bear back to the big screen. The third instalment in the beloved franchise follows Paddington as he returns to his homeland for the first time since leaving as a cub. Released in UK cinemas in November 2024, the film has since charmed audiences worldwide [citation:5]. In 2026, searches for “Paddington in Peru” remain high as the film arrives on streaming platforms and home media. This guide covers everything about the cast, plot, critical reception and where to watch.
What Is Paddington in Peru About?
The story follows Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) and the Brown family as they travel to Peru. They visit Paddington’s beloved Aunt Lucy at the Home for Retired Bears [citation:6]. Upon arrival, they discover that Aunt Lucy has mysteriously disappeared. The family embarks on a journey through the Amazon rainforest and up to the mountain peaks of Peru to find her [citation:6].
Along the way, they encounter the Reverend Mother (Olivia Colman), a guitar-playing nun who runs the bear retirement home. They also meet Hunter Cabot (Antonio Banderas), a dashing riverboat captain with a secret agenda to find the mythical city of El Dorado [citation:6]. The plot involves cryptic maps, ancestral ghosts and a race against time.
Unlike the straightforward nature of the first two films, this adventure has been described as more complex, with some critics noting that Paddington becomes “more a Sherlock Holmes detective and adventurer than the friendly anthropomorphic bear” [citation:6].
Paddington in Peru Cast
The film features a stellar ensemble cast of returning favourites and exciting newcomers:
- Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington
- Hugh Bonneville as Mr. Henry Brown
- Emily Mortimer as Mrs. Mary Brown (replacing Sally Hawkins) [citation:1][citation:6]
- Julie Walters as Mrs. Bird
- Jim Broadbent as Mr. Gruber
- Madeleine Harris as Judy Brown
- Samuel Joslin as Jonathan Brown
- Imelda Staunton as the voice of Aunt Lucy
- Olivia Colman as The Reverend Mother [citation:3][citation:6]
- Antonio Banderas as Captain Hunter Cabot [citation:3][citation:6]
- Carla Tous as Gina Cabot, Hunter’s daughter [citation:6]
The recasting of Mrs. Brown was a notable change. Sally Hawkins, who played the role in the first two films, stepped down and was replaced by Emily Mortimer [citation:1][citation:4]. Hawkins explained that she wanted to pass the role to someone else after evolving into different characters in other projects.
Paddington in Peru Release Date and Where to Watch
Paddington in Peru was released in UK cinemas on 8 November 2024 [citation:5]. The film arrived in US theatres on 17 January 2025 [citation:5]. It was distributed by StudioCanal in the UK and Sony Pictures worldwide.
As of 2026, the film is available to stream on Sky Cinema and NOW in the UK [citation:7]. The Blu-ray and DVD were released in mid-2025, featuring behind-the-scenes featurettes and commentary from the cast and crew [citation:6].
Unlike blockbusters that prioritise spectacle over heart, Paddington in Peru has been praised for maintaining the franchise’s signature warmth.
Paddington in Peru Box Office Performance
The film performed solidly at the global box office. It earned $25 million in North America despite opening alongside Marvel’s Captain America: Brave New World [citation:2]. Worldwide, the film crossed a significant milestone, becoming a commercial success for StudioCanal [citation:2].
While it did not match the phenomenal box office of Paddington 2, considered one of the best-reviewed films of all time, the third instalment still turned a healthy profit. The film’s budget was reportedly lower than its predecessor, making the return on investment favourable [citation:2].
Critical Reception: What Do Reviewers Say?
Paddington in Peru holds a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics, with an audience score of 91% [citation:2]. These numbers are excellent for any film, though they fall slightly short of Paddington 2’s near-perfect 99% score.
Reviews have been generally positive, with many praising the new cast members. Olivia Colman has been called the “resident scene stealer,” with one critic noting her “bouncy style of Julie Andrews warbling” [citation:6]. Antonio Banderas was described as having “an actor’s dream role,” playing multiple versions of his character including the ancestors whose ghosts spur him on [citation:6].
However, some critics felt the film lost some of the emotional depth of the earlier instalments. One reviewer wrote: “What I missed most was the emotional aspect. It’s still fun, but with its needlessly complex plot, it seems to lose its way” [citation:6]. Another noted that Paddington becomes “more a detective and adventurer” than the relatable bear audiences fell in love with [citation:6].
The absence of original director Paul King was also noted. Dougal Wilson stepped in as first-time feature director, and while he captured much of the franchise’s charm, some critics felt the film lacked King’s “weapons-grade charm” [citation:1].
Like a beloved sitcom adapting to change, the Paddington franchise has successfully evolved while keeping its core identity intact.
The Opening Scene: Paddington’s Origin Story
The film opens with a flashback to a young Paddington cub in Darkest Peru. He is seen exploring the jungle when he nearly falls into a raging river. His Aunt Lucy saves him and pulls him to safety [citation:8].
“Wherever did you come from?” Aunt Lucy asks the cub. She hands him a marmalade sandwich, which he quickly eats. “Well, you’re here now,” she says. “And remember, little one, if you ever get lost again, just roar and I’ll roar right back” [citation:8].
This touching opening establishes the emotional stakes for the rest of the film. It also explains why Paddington feels such a strong connection to his aunt and why he must find her when she disappears.
Filming Locations: Peru and Colombia
The film was shot on location in Peru and Colombia, as well as in the UK [citation:4][citation:9]. The production team wanted to capture the authentic beauty of the Amazon rainforest and the mountain peaks of the Andes. The Peruvian scenery serves as a stunning backdrop for Paddington’s journey home [citation:9].
Director Dougal Wilson used a combination of practical locations and CGI to bring the jungle to life. The result is a visually spectacular film that celebrates Peruvian culture and landscapes [citation:9].
Why Paddington in Peru Is Trending in 2026
Paddington in Peru continues to trend for several reasons. The film’s release on streaming platforms and home media has introduced it to new audiences. The beloved franchise has a dedicated fanbase that revisits the films regularly. The critical acclaim and high Rotten Tomatoes scores keep the film in conversation. Additionally, the star power of Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas continues to draw attention.
Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, Paddington in Peru offers a delightful adventure. It may not reach the impossible heights of Paddington 2, but it remains a charming, heartfelt and visually stunning addition to the franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where can I watch Paddington in Peru?
In the UK, the film is streaming on Sky Cinema and NOW. It is also available on Blu-ray, DVD and digital platforms.
Who replaced Sally Hawkins in Paddington in Peru?
Emily Mortimer took over the role of Mrs. Brown from Sally Hawkins [citation:1][citation:6].
Is Paddington in Peru as good as Paddington 2?
Reviews are very positive, but most critics agree it does not quite reach the perfection of Paddington 2. It holds a 93% Rotten Tomatoes score compared to Paddington 2’s 99% [citation:2].
Who directed Paddington in Peru?
Dougal Wilson directed the film, replacing Paul King who directed the first two instalments [citation:1].
Does Aunt Lucy die in Paddington in Peru?
No spoilers, but the film explores themes of aging and family bonds. Paddington’s mission to find his missing aunt drives the plot [citation:6].
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