By: Mike Ilagan
I had the privilege of attending the highly anticipated premiere and special screening of Paddington in Peru last Saturday. Held at Hoyts Cinemas in the Entertainment Quarter, the event was an unforgettable celebration of everyone’s favourite marmalade-loving bear.
The moment I arrived, I could feel the excitement in the air. Fans, families, and media members had gathered to mark Paddington’s latest adventure, and it was clear this would be something special.
The story takes us on an emotional and adventurous journey as Paddington Bear returns to his homeland of Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy at the Home for Retired Bears. Paddington still lives happily with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens, spreading joy and kindness wherever he goes. But everything changes when he receives a letter from the Reverend Mother, a nun who runs the Home for Retired Bears. Aunt Lucy misses him dearly and wishes to see him again. Determined to make her wish come true, Paddington begins an epic journey.
With his new British passport in hand, Paddington is joined by the Browns, including the ever-loyal Mrs Bird, as they travel deep into the heart of Peru. Along the way, they befriend Hunter, a charming riverboat captain, and his spirited daughter Gina, who join them on their escapades through the Amazon rainforest and the breathtaking mountain peaks of Peru. The adventure is filled with twists and turns, uncovering surprising secrets about Paddington’s past. Amidst it all, themes of love, family, and self-discovery shine through, making it a heartwarming experience for audiences of all ages.
The premiere was nothing short of magical from the moment I stepped into the Entertainment Quarter. The entrance had been transformed with a red carpet that set the tone for the evening. A life-sized replica of Paddington’s iconic London taxi provided the perfect photo backdrop, and then there was Paddington himself. Seeing him make a special appearance at the media wall was a delight. Fans couldn’t resist snapping photos with the lovable bear, who charmed everyone with his antics.
Guests were treated to complimentary popcorn and drinks, which ensured no one went hungry during the screening. As if that wasn’t enough, we were given exclusive Paddington in Peru giveaways, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.
A special thanks goes to Haseena Yaseen of Studio Canal for the kind invitation. It was indeed an honour to attend and witness the magic of Paddington’s latest adventure.
There’s something remarkable about the Paddington films—how they manage to appeal to such a wide audience. Whether you grew up with Michael Bond’s original books or are discovering Paddington for the first time, his adventures resonate across generations. Paddington in Peru continues this tradition, delivering a story that is as thrilling as it is heartwarming. The stunning visuals, particularly the vibrant depiction of Peru’s landscapes, provide a breathtaking backdrop for the narrative. The characters, both familiar and new, bring such depth and charm to the story that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For me, the premiere of Paddington in Peru wasn’t just a screening—it was a celebration of the enduring magic of Paddington Bear. From the thoughtfully crafted event details to the emotional and adventurous storyline, the experience was unforgettable. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Paddington’s world, this film is a must-watch. It’s a beautiful reminder of the importance of family, kindness, and embracing life’s adventures—with a marmalade sandwich or two, of course!