With all that is going on — and has been going on in the last few years, it's somewhat reassuring that Paddington will be back on our screens next year. Even if Paul King isn't directing (he's still involved as a producer), the return of the diminutive, kindhearted bear is something to look forward to. And now we know he'll be back on UK screens next year.
Paddington In Peru (for that is the third film's title) brings the bear’s story to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown Family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through the Amazon rainforest and to the mountain peaks of Peru.
Emily Mortimer has replaced Sally Hawkins as Mrs. Brown, while the likes of Ben Whishaw, Hugh Bonneville, Julie Walters, Madeleine Harris, Samuel Joslin, Imelda Staunton and Jim Broadbent all return. Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas are the new recruits this time.
And there has been another change in the cast beyond the Hawkins/Mortimer swap: Rachel Zegler, who had been supposed to play Gina Cabot, is out because of the ongoing SAG/AFTRA strike (the other cast is covered by UK equity). Newcomer Carlo Tous will play the role instead.
With Dougal Wilson in the director's chair, the film has completed filming in London, Peru and Colombia. "It’s been a joy and an honor to shoot Paddington In Peru with such a wonderful and talented cast and crew," said Wilson in a statement. "I feel incredibly lucky to have been blessed with such a lovely group of people, many of whom have returned to the world of this beloved bear. We are also delighted to have welcomed Emily, Olivia, Antonio and Carla to the Paddington family."
Paddington In Peru is set for release on 8 November next year, while Stateside audiences will have to wait until 17 January 2025. Has anyone checked to see if Nicolas Cage is okay after that revelation?