The beloved bear, Paddington, has once again captured the hearts of audiences in the UK and Ireland with the premiere of *Paddington in Peru*. The film achieved a remarkable £9.65 million ($12.4 million) opening weekend, marking it as the biggest launch of the year for a British-produced film. This opening weekend stands as a milestone not only for the franchise but also for Studiocanal, showcasing its highest earnings upon release. Since *No Time to Die* launched in 2021, this film has set new standards for box office success among British films.
The journey for Paddington began with the release of the original film in 2014, which opened to £5.1 million. Its 2017 sequel built on this foundation with £8.2 million. With total earnings from the first two films reaching an impressive $600 million worldwide, the anticipation for *Paddington in Peru* has been substantial. Drawing an estimated audience of 1.2 million across cinemas in the UK and Ireland, the film not only resonates with its committed fan base but also attracts new viewers.
This installment offers a fresh narrative as Paddington receives a letter from his Aunt Lucy, who has mysteriously disappeared. Following this intriguing plot twist, the Brown family embarks on an adventurous expedition through the Amazon, highlighting the film’s engaging storyline and rich visual backdrop. Featuring a star-studded cast that includes the likes of Hugh Bonneville, Imelda Staunton, and Antonio Banderas, the film effectively captures the essence of beloved children’s literature while appealing to a modern audience.
Critics have responded positively to the film, emphasizing the magical quality of Paddington’s story, characterized by warmth and inclusivity. Stephanie Bunbury from *Deadline* noted the enchanting charm that remains essential to the narrative, reiterating how the character continues to resonate with both children and adults alike. Adapted from Michael Bond’s cherished series of children’s stories, the film’s seamless blend of adventure and whimsy invites audiences to immerse themselves in Paddington’s world.
Mustering significant competition, *Paddington in Peru* surpassed other major releases, such as *The Super Mario Bros. Movie* and *Mary Poppins Returns*, solidifying its status in film history. It is noteworthy that this film has achieved the sixth largest opening for a British film in the past decade, adding to the growing legacy of Paddington’s cinematic franchise.
As *Paddington in Peru* sets records in the UK and Ireland, anticipation grows for its international distribution. Studiocanal is set to release the film in multiple territories, including France, Germany, and Australia, while Sony has secured North American rights with a release scheduled for January 17, 2025. The delightful adventure of Paddington shows no signs of slowing down, signaling a promising future ahead for this iconic character.