This weekend marked a significant milestone in the world of British cinema as “Paddington in Peru” made its highly-anticipated debut, achieving an unprecedented opening in the UK and Ireland. Collecting an impressive £9.65 million (approximately $12.4 million) within three days, this animated adventure not only sets the record for the largest opening of the year for a British film but also stands as the best opening since the critically acclaimed “No Time to Die” in 2021. This achievement underscores the enduring appeal and widespread affection for the beloved character of Paddington Bear.
The trajectory of the Paddington franchise has been remarkable. The original film launched to a respectable £5.1 million in 2014, followed by a sequel that garnered £8.2 million upon its release in 2017. Now, with a total worldwide gross of around $600 million from the previous films alone, “Paddington in Peru” has elevated the series to unprecedented heights, drawing an estimated audience of 1.2 million across various screens. This threequel showcases the strength of family-friendly storytelling, proving once again that Paddington’s charm captivates audiences of all ages.
As the film opened in a staggering 732 cinemas—the largest number for any film this year—its success is all the more noteworthy when stacked against other recent releases. It eclipsed the openings of not only “The Super Mario Bros Movie” (£8.7 million without previews) but also surpassed some of the greats of modern animated cinema, including “Incredibles 2” (£9.4 million) and “Mary Poppins Returns” (£8.2 million). These figures highlight Paddington’s cultural significance and its ability to resonate with viewers where other franchise films have struggled.
A Heartfelt Adventure Rooted in Beloved Stories
At the heart of this film lies a captivating narrative inspired by the cherished children’s stories of British author Michael Bond. The story unfolds with Paddington receiving an urgent letter from Peru, where his beloved Aunt Lucy has mysteriously vanished from her sanctuary in the jungle. This premise sets off an exciting adventure, propelling Paddington and the Brown family into the depths of the Amazon rainforest and the majestic heights of Peru’s Andes mountains. The combination of adventure, mystery, and familiar characters weaves a story that resonates with audiences seeking both excitement and nostalgia.
Critical reviews have already begun to emerge, with Stephanie Bunbury of Deadline noting that this latest installment continues to embody “the magic of a bear welcomed by strangers.” Written by a talented team comprising Paul King, Simon Farnaby, and Mark Burton, the screenplay promises a delightful experience for viewers. Additionally, Studiocanal has plans to distribute the film across various international markets, including France, Germany, and Australia. North American audiences are in for a treat as Sony prepares for a premiere on January 17, 2025.
In essence, “Paddington in Peru” has not only enjoyed immense commercial success but has also reaffirmed the character’s timeless allure. With its charming narrative, delightful characters, and significant box office achievements, Paddington Bear continues to weave his magic across generations, bridging the gap between nostalgia and contemporary family entertainment. This film serves as a heartfelt reminder of the joy that comes from kindness, adventure, and a touch of marmalade magic.