Warner Bros. Pictures
Warner Bros. has officially released their record setting film Paddington 2 to home video. The live-action portrayal of Michael Bond’s series of children’s books was first adapted in 2015 directed by Paul King. King created a charming, stylish, and innocent film that honored Bond’s stories. Three years later, King returned to the directing chair and crafted an even more memorable sequel. Paddington 2 is set several years after the events of the original 2015 film where our red-hatted, blue-raincoated Paddington (voiced by Ben Whishaw) has settled into his life with the Brown family. The local community adores the well-spoken bear and often interacts with him. Paddington’s aunt is celebrating her 100th birthday and he wants to send her the perfect gift, a pop-up book of famous London sights. Before he can purchase the book, it’s stolen by Phoenix Buchanan (played by Hugh Grant) and Paddington is framed for the crime. Paddington is sent to prison and it’s up to the Brown family to solve the case and clear his name.
I don’t think there’s anything worse than seeing a small, adorable bear in prison.
Paddington 2 excels in its slapstick comedy, which was an aspect I enjoyed in the first film. The choreographed physical comedy with Paddington working as a barber or a window washer to save up money were some of the highlights early in the movie. Whishaw provides just the right amount of silliness and innocence to make this role a memorable one. With all these fun moments, it does take some time for the plot to gain momentum. A third of the film just feels likes silly adventures where Paddington is getting into trouble but once the storyline picks up, the film delves deeper into its characters. Improving from the first film is the central villain, Phoenix Buchanan. Hugh Grant’s character allows for some over the top acting moments, which are exciting as well as deceitful. Hugh Grant usually plays the serious Oscar type, but here he hams it up and every second works.
With movie theaters filled with kid films about flatulence and app commercials, it’s refreshing knowing that Paddington 2 can be successful even as a whole-hearted film about a cuddly bear. Films like this, and most recently Peter Rabbit, remind me that trips to the theater can be enjoyable for the whole family instead of focusing on gross clichés that sometimes kids don’t even enjoy.
The Blu-ray release for Paddington 2 shines as the warm, bright colors shimmer onto the screen. All the scenes in the film are rendered with the highest of quality. Moments of Paddington 2 reminded of Wes Anderson films with set designs that boast rich colors and detailed scenery. Warner Bros. put a lot of effort into bringing this release to the small screen and it certainly paid off. Every scene is outstanding, and Paddington looks even cuter in high definition.
The audio for Paddington 2 is just as good as the look of the film. The 7.1 channel Dolby TrueHD audio quality amplifies a few thrilling moments like the prison escape scene and railroad chase sequences. The dialog is crystal clear, and the film utilizes spectacular techniques to make its tiny sounds really pop.
Warner Bros. offers fun special features for both adults and children to enjoy. The audio commentary goes more in depth on how King wanted to craft the sequel and what he wanted out of it. One of my favorite aspects of audio commentary is learning how filmmakers set up certain sequences and how they direct the actors. For children to enjoy, there are special features on Grant’s musical performance, a breakdown of pop-up books, and a recipe video for making marmalade.
Paddington 2 is a warm Blu-ray release with bright colors and whimsical moments for the whole family to enjoy!
Warner Brothers Home Entertainment generously provided Hotchka with a Blu-ray versions of the film for reviewing purposes.
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