Producer David Heyman had been wanting to adapt the “Paddington” series of children’s books for a while, announcing his plans to produce it in 2007. It took a bit to get it where it needed to be, but with director Paul King, they managed to get the film made and released it in 2014 to much acclaim. So how does it fare overall? Does it stand up as an exemplary adaptation of children’s books? Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off our Paddington series with King’s first film in this franchise, 2014’s Paddington.

We don’t think so, but there is quite a bit of talk about the origins of this character and how they adapted him from the books. And of course, there’s the challenge of making him look realistic in a live action film, not to mention casting absolutely the right person for the voice performance. In all cases, they succeeded. 

Ben Wishaw is brilliant as the voice of Paddington, and likely a huge reason why he’s so loveable. But the Browns are also incredibly loveable, headed up by Hugh Bonneville and Sally Hawkins. Nicole Kidman is over the top and wonderful as the villain, but is she too villainous or just right for the story? And the cast is rounded out by some of our favorite Brits – Jim Broadbent, Peter Capaldi, Imelda Staunton, Michael Gambon, Julie Walters, and Matt Lucas.

All in all, it’s a pure delight of a film and a very easy one to talk about. So check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

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