Rating of
3/4
A Standard for Today's Children's Films
Unknown - wrote on 05/18/15
I had no intention in seeing 'Paddington' based on the trailer. I thought it was another cash-grab movie based on name recognition of a children's brand. Boy was I wrong. 'Paddington' shows just how to take a literary character with minor popularity and make a worthwhile adaptation. The story does follow formula to a 'T', but the events play out in more entertaining fashion. This is a prime example in how to properly make a film that is 100% appropriate for the youngest children, while also making the experience enjoyable to all other ages. The humor, characters, and clever visual touches have a whimsy charm about them. This is especially true for Paddington himself. He's so likable and warmhearted that it becomes impossible to stop smiling. I like all of the small moments that reflect his positive personality. Even the hardest person to please could find some joy here. It's also fresh to see no easily made (or pointlessly low-brow) jokes present. 'Paddington' is a wonderful surprise of a little film.
