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‘Paddington in Peru’ Exclusive Interview: Antonio Banderas
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Arriving in theaters on February 14th, ‘Paddington in Peru’ is the latest adventure for the charismatic, chaotic bear.

Directed by Dougal Wilson, the film stars Ben Whishaw (‘Black Doves‘) as the voice of Paddington, as well as Hugh Bonneville (‘Downton Abbey: A New Era‘), Emily Mortimer (‘Mary Poppins Returns‘), Julie Walters (‘Billy Elliot‘), Jim Broadbent (‘The Iron Lady‘), Imelda Staunton (‘Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix‘), Hayley Atwell (‘Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One‘), Olivia Colman (‘Empire of Light‘), and Antonio Bandeas (‘Desperado‘).

Related Article: Movie Review: ‘Paddington in Peru’

Antonio Banderas stars in ‘Paddington in Peru’.

Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Antonio Banderas about his work on ‘Paddington in Peru,’ his prior experience with the character, playing multiple roles, working with director Dougal Wilson, and the challenges of wearing a bushy beard on set.

You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interview.

Antonio Banderas in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

Moviefone: To begin with, what was your history with Paddington before you were offered the role? Did you know much about him?

Antonio Banderas: No. Do you know why? Because my kids were grown and because they’re in Los Angeles and I am in Spain, and because I’m a very busy man! But I remember seeing on television, Paddington having tea with the Queen of England and that was surprising. Basically just to see how the Queen of England was actually a very good actress. When I got the script, I got to know the character through what I was reading. It came out of the paper beautifully, like a very special character. Not affected by the life in which we are all living in the world. He is different, he’s got calmness, kindness, a way of behaving that is actually very special.

Director Dougal Wilson on the set of ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

MF: How was it working in collaboration with the director, Dougal Wilson?

AB: The second time I met Paddington was on the set through my director and the producers who were taking a lot of care of presenting this character in two different ways. In one way, which is creating and building a character that actually connects with kids and their parents in an entertaining way, and at the same time in an educational way too. So two different ways to just present the character. It was beautiful, I think it’s worth it to be in a movie like this because I always like movies for kids. I have done a lot of those. I’m an expert on that territory and I know of the importance of bringing something to parents around the world that they feel safe taking their kids to see.

Antonio Banderas in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

MF: You play multiple characters in the movie, all of Hunter’s various ancestors. Did you enjoy playing multiple roles?

AB: It was fun. I never had the possibility of playing six characters in a movie. Mainly they’re episodic. Some is just in little moments here and there, with the exception of Caboto, the conquistador, which has much more participation, the rest are little episodes here and there. It was interesting because at the end the character is about struggling with himself. Those family members, these ancestors are pushing him to behave in a way that he’s trying to get out of. It’s the greed, which is I think one of the main things. In the movie that situation between good and evil, and the evil is represented by greed, by gold, by ambition, and love for his daughter is the other side of the character. So in that struggle, who’s going to win at the end? You’ve got to watch the movie!

Antonio Banderas in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

MF: Finally, was it challenging on the days you had to wear a giant, bushy beard?

AB: Yeah, when I had days of the bearded characters, I was not that happy. You arrive to the set and they just put this raccoon on top of you that is going to stay there scratching! You cannot eat actually, because if you eat normally, the mustache just comes away from your lips and then they come with the glue, and it’s just crazy. But in the end I had fun. In a way, when we were in the makeup trailer, we were creating the character together because they ask you, ‘what do you think about this?’ And you are in mood of creation. Because they allow just you to bring ideas of how this character can be and to make it more effective.
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What’s the story of ‘Paddington in Peru’?

The new movie brings Paddington’s (Ben Whishaw) story to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy (Imelda Staunton), 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 up to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Who is in the cast of ‘Paddington in Peru’?
- Hugh Bonneville as Henry Brown
- Emily Mortimer as Mary Brown
- Madeleine Harris as Judy Brown
- Samuel Joslin as Jonathan Brown
- Julie Walters as Mrs. Bird
- Jim Broadbent as Samuel Gruber
- Olivia Colman as Clarissa Cabot / The Reverend Mother
- Antonio Banderas as Hunter Cabot
- Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington Brown
- Imelda Staunton as the voice of Aunt Lucy
- Hayley Atwell as Madison
Paddington in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

Movies in the ‘Paddington’ Franchise:
- ‘Paddington‘ (2015)
- ‘Paddington 2‘ (2018)
- ‘Paddington in Peru‘ (2025)
Buy ‘Paddington’ Movies on Amazon
February 13, 2025
Movie Review: ‘Paddington in Peru’
Paddington in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

‘Paddington in Peru’ receives 6.5 out of 10 stars.

Arriving in theaters on February 14th, ‘Paddington in Peru’ is a perfectly fun family film that would be considered a solid chunk of entertainment on its own merits.

Unfortunately, it is also the third outing for a franchise that has so far produced one very good film and one stone-cold classic of the genre, which rather overshadows this less unique-seeming take on the cuddly bear character and his London family.

Related Article: ‘Paddington in Peru’ Adds Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas and Rachel Zegler to its Cast

Will ‘Paddington in Peru’ take you on a journey?

Paddington in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

When ‘Paddington in Peru’ was announced without co-writer/director Paul King overseeing matters, there was huge concern from the ‘Paddington’ faithful (Padding-stans? No, we’re not going to call ourselves that!) that some or all of the magic might be missing this time around.

Could it end up a craven attempt to cash on the pure joy and emotion (not to mention superb characterization) of the first two movies? Is it a quest too far for our furry hero with the big heart?

And if we’re honest, would it have been better to leave things well alone given how satisfying the final of ‘Paddington 2’ ended up being?

Fortunately, director Dougal Wilson (making his movie debut year after some years creating commercials and music videos) steers the ship with enough charm to answer most of those questions, and King is still involved. Yet there remains some key spark missing.

Script and Direction

Director Dougal Wilson on the set of ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

‘Paddington’ veterans King and co-writer/occasional actor Simon Farnaby cooked up the story alongside Mark Burton (who himself has worked at Aardman Animation), screenplay duties fell to Burton and Jon Foster and James Lamont, who have some ‘Paddington’ experience of their own having written for the Netflix animation series featuring the character.

Which means that it does at least feel like ‘Paddington in Peru’ takes place in roughly the same universe as the two previous movies, the tone also largely carried over.

Taking the main character from London is sometimes a disadvantage, since he loses that fish-out-of-water feel but having the Brown family accompany him on his quest to find his Aunt Lucy who has seemingly gone missing on a mission of her own at least includes some of those elements.

And our furry central figure remains as clumsy as ever, evidenced by his trouble using a photo booth at the start and his efforts to steer the boat that the group find themselves upon following the captain falling off.

Yet there is still something that just feels… off about the story in itself, as if it’s a very competent cover band playing, but missing some of the style of the original musicians.

Oliva Coleman in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

Likewise, Wilson handles the directorial side of things with large helpings of charisma and humor as is requisite in a ‘Paddington’ outing and looks to ape a lot of what King brought to his movies.

But there’s still that X-factor that has gone astray, one that even playing the hits (such as Paddington breaking out his “hard stare” at one moment) cannot entirely replicate or successfully channel.

Moving things to the Amazon from London presents something of a challenge, as while the movies have always existed in a more fantastical, idealized version of England’s capital city, attempting to replicate the jungle on stages and with bluescreen means it looks even more ersatz.

It’s still a very fun adventure with some watchable villains (a ‘Paddington franchise staple) and boasts enough laughs to carry it along alike a riverboat cruising through the Amazon.

Performances

(L to R) Samuel Joslin, Madeleine Harris, Paddington, Emily Mortimer, Hugh Bonneville, and Julie Walters in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

At the heart of any ‘Paddington’ movie is the bear himself, and with the capable, charm-filled voice of Ben Whishaw still present and correct, he sounds and acts the part. The VFX team have also taken care to make sure he looks the same.

Having him head back to where he grew up does diminish a little of his appeal, but he still gets into scrapes and will tug at your heartstrings for certain moments.

Around him, the Brown family have gone through more of a change. While Hugh Bonneville is still excellent as the slightly stuffy but still warm Mr. Brown, his wife Mary is now played by Emily Mortimer rather than Sally Hawkins. She brings perhaps a sweeter vibe, though Mrs. Brown remains a slightly less active character in story terms than her husband.

Still, that’s better than the two kids, Judy, played by Madeleine Harris and Jonathan (Samuel Joslin). Despite being older, they’re almost superfluous at this point, except when the story finds a reason for them to exist. That’s not a knock on the actors, they just don’t have too much to do.

Oliva Coleman in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

Faring better in support are the likes of British National Treasure (and Oscar winner Olivia Colman), who was seemingly born for the ‘Paddington’ franchise and here plays a quirky nun who oversees the Home for Retired Bears in Peru and Antonio Banderas, who understands the amplified comedy assignment as boat captain Hunter Cabot.

He has the advantage of playing several characters, including all of Hunter’s deceased ancestors, who appear in ghostly form and give him other shades (pun intended) to play.

Final Thoughts

Antonio Banderas in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

While still a very fun family outing with plenty to recommend it, ‘Paddington in Peru’ does inevitably suffer in comparison to its near-perfect brethren (particularly that second one).

That’s not entirely the fault of the film itself, more that it comes across as an attempt to channel what worked about those two without cracking the formula to the same degree. It doesn’t embarrass itself in the ‘Paddington’ pantheon, it’s just not up there with the best.
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What’s the story of ‘Paddington in Peru’?

The new movie brings Paddington’s (BenWhishaw) story to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy (Imelda Staunton), 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 up to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Who is in the cast of ‘Paddington in Peru’?
- Hugh Bonneville as Henry Brown
- Emily Mortimer as Mary Brown
- Madeleine Harris as Judy Brown
- Samuel Joslin as Jonathan Brown
- Julie Walters as Mrs. Bird
- Jim Broadbent as Samuel Gruber
- Olivia Colman as Clarissa Cabot / The Reverend Mother
- Antonio Banderas as Hunter Cabot
- Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington Brown
- Imelda Staunton as the voice of Aunt Lucy
- Hayley Atwell as Madison
Paddington in ‘Paddington in Peru’. Photo: Sony Pictures.

Movies in the ‘Paddington’ Franchise:
- ‘Paddington‘ (2015)
- ‘Paddington 2‘ (2018)
- ‘Paddington in Peru‘ (2025)
Buy ‘Paddington’ Movies on Amazon
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February 11, 2025
TV Review: ‘Black Doves’
Keira Knightley in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

Launching with all six episodes on Netflix on December 5th, ‘Black Doves’ almost feels like it could be a crossbreed between an expensive BBC drama and a Shane Black movie.

The former for the production values and starry British-led cast (with the financing instead coming from the world’s biggest streaming service) and the latter for the chewy, satisfying dialogue, occasional bursts of violence and Christmas setting.

Does ‘Black Doves’ fly high?

Ben Whishaw in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

‘Black Doves’ is the latest series to hail from Joe Barton, a TV veteran whose career to date includes the excellent, if little-seen (and quickly cancelled) ‘Giri/Haji’ and more recently twisty sci-fi thriller ‘The Lazarus Project.’

We’d predict that ‘Black Doves’ probably gave him less of a headache to figure out than his last gig, which is not to say that it doesn’t include its own twists and turns as Keira Knightley’s character delves into a mystery with some international implications.

Script and Direction

(L to R) Ben Whishaw and Keira Knightley in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

Barton also wrote all six scripts (probably another reason this feels so very British –– it had a singular vision guiding it from the executive producer’s office), and that gives the whole show a cohesive feel.

This is a propulsive, darkly funny action thriller sliced up into episodic chunks, and for the most part works really, really well. The set-piece fight scenes are impressive but not overused, and the conversations feel authentically human even as they involve geopolitics or the enshrouding main mystery.

Yes, there are certainly some trope-heavy moments common to so many thrillers in this genre, but few feel so predictable as to ruin the effect.

Directors Alex Gabassi and Lisa Gunning took three episodes each, and as with Barton’s writing, they all feel of a piece. The action is dynamic, and the show as whole looks beautiful. It helps that the backdrop is a twinkly London at Christmastime, but this is no shiny rom-com.

Performances

With Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw as the focus, the whole cast has something to contribute.

Keira Knightley as Helen Webb

Keira Knightley in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

We’ve seen Knightley do action in the past, but her character here is more layered and nuanced than many of her movie roles. Helen is a woman with a checkered past and whose life is split between family and duty –– even if that duty is to a mercenary espionage outfit rather than her country.

Here, the actor has the chance to combine her natural charm with a steely edge that works well for her. And she’s a great double-act with Whishaw.

Ben Whishaw as Sam Young

Ben Whishaw in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

With espionage experience under his belt (albeit more as the tech-happy Q in the Daniel Craig Bond movies), Whishaw taps into something primal for ‘Doves’ Sam –– he’s a man who accepts the life of a fixer for the organization, while also showing a vulnerable side that aches to get back to a normal life with his ex, Michael (a superb Omari Douglas).

This is a different side to Whishaw than we’re used to seeing on screen, and a welcome one.

Sarah Lancashire as Reed

Sarah Lancashire in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

Lancashire, British acting royalty at this stage partly thanks to her commanding work in ‘Happy Valley,’ is a convincing blend of imperious handler to Knightley’s Helen and ice queen operative.

She may not get her hands bloody directly (she has people for that), but she sweeps into scenes and delivers what could be tough exposition with grace and style.

Kathryn Hunter as Lenny Lines

Kathryn Hunter in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

Hunter has become a reliable scene-stealer, and here plays the hard-nosed crime boss Lenny, who rules with an iron hand. Her scenes, particularly with Whishaw (whose character once worked for her), are always crackling with energy and danger.

This is an actor who can do so much with even the smallest role.

Tracey Ullman as Alex

We won’t exactly specify Ullman’s role, as it’s something of a spoiler, but suffice to say when she shows up, she really has an impact.

Other Notable Characters

(L to R) Gabrielle Creev, Katherine Hunter and Ella Lily Hyland in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

The rest of the ‘Doves’ ensemble is a reliable bunch of British (and American) performers, with Gabrielle Creevy and Antonia Campbell-Hughes both excellent as chatty assassins, while Andrew Buchan is stalwart as Helen’s politician husband, who gets to do more than just be her other half.

If there’s one actor who seems shortchanged by his role, it’s Andrew Koji, who mostly appears in brief flashbacks and mostly serves as a plot point rather than a character.

Final Thoughts

Ben Whishaw in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

It’s not every spy thriller you could conceivably see slotting into your Christmas re-watch list. And while ‘Black Doves’ may not be perfect –– slipping as it does into cliché occasionally –– it’s still a very entertaining example the genre, with great writing and good performances.

‘Black Doves’ receives 8 out of 10 stars.
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What’s the story of ‘Black Doves’?

Set against the backdrop of London at Christmas, ‘Black Doves’ is a story of friendship and sacrifice.

It follows Helen Webb (Keira Knightley), a quick-witted, down-to-earth, dedicated wife and mother — and professional spy. For 10 years, she’s been passing on her politician husband’s secrets to the shadowy organization she works for: the Black Doves.

When her secret lover Jason (Andrew Koji) is assassinated, her spymaster, the enigmatic Reed (Sarah Lancashire), calls in Helen’s old friend Sam (Ben Whishaw) to keep her safe.

Together, Helen and Sam set off on a mission to investigate who killed Jason and why, leading them to uncover a vast, interconnected conspiracy linking the murky London underworld to a looming geopolitical crisis.

Who is in the cast of ‘Black Doves’?
- Keira Knightley as Helen
- Sarah Lancashire as Reed
- Ben Whishaw as Sam
- Andrew Koji as Jason
- Kathryn Hunter as Lenny Lines
- Tracey Ullman as Alex
- Andrew Buchan as Wallace Webb
- Omari Douglas as Michael
- Sam Troughton as Stephen Yarrick
- Gabrielle Creevy as Eleanor
- Luther Ford as Hector Newman
- Isabella Wei as Kai-Ming
Keira Knightley in ‘Black Doves’. Photo: Netflix.

Keira Knightley Movies:
- ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace‘ (1999)
- ‘Bend It Like Beckham‘ (2003)
- ‘New Year’s Eve‘ (2011)
- ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl‘ (2003)
- ‘Love Actually‘ (2003)
- ‘King Arthur‘ (2004)
- ‘The Jacket‘ (2005)
- ‘Pride & Prejudice‘ (2005)
- ‘Domino‘ (2005)
- ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest‘ (2006)
- ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End‘ (2007)
- ‘Atonement‘ (2008)
- ‘Never Let Me Go‘ (2010)
- ‘London Boulevard‘ (2010)
- ‘A Dangerous Method‘ (2011)
- ‘Seeking a Friend for the End of the World‘ (2012)
- ‘Anna Karenina‘ (2012)
- ‘Begin Again‘ (2014)
- ‘Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit‘ (2014)
- ‘The Imitation Game‘ (2014)
- ‘Everest‘ (2015)
- ‘Collateral Beauty‘ (2016)
- ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales‘ (2017)
- ‘The Nutcracker and the Four Realms‘ (2018)
- ‘The Aftermath‘ (2019)
- ‘Boston Strangler‘ (2023)
Buy Keira Knightley Movies on Amazon
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December 14, 2024
‘Paddington in Peru’ will Release on January 17, 2025
Brendan Gleeson in StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Preview
- The third ‘Paddington’ movie, ‘Paddington in Peru’ will arrive in the US on January 15, 2025.
- It’ll find the bear visiting his Aunt Lucy in here retirement home in Peru.
- While a lot of the cast is returning, Emily Mortimer has stepped in to replace Sally Hawkins.
In a world of ongoing strife, war, lingering pandemic effects and movie delays for various reasons, it’s somehow heartening to know that marmalade sandwich-loving bear Paddington will be back on our screens –– even if we will have to wait a while.

Sony Pictures, which is releasing the movie in the States, has set a January 17, 2025, date for ‘Paddington in Peru’, the third outing for the beloved bear.

That might be bad news for fans such as Nicolas Cage (even if that was only a joke in ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’), but UK audiences will be happy to learn that the distributor there, StudioCanal, has scheduled it for November 8, 2024.
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What’s the story of ‘Paddington in Peru’?

A scene from director Paul King’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Six years after ‘Paddington 2’, the third Paddington film 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.

Related Article: ‘Paddington in Peru’ Adds Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas and Rachel Zegler to its Cast

Who is starring in ‘Paddington in Peru’?

Olivia Colman in ‘Empire of Light.’ Photo by Parisa Taghizadeh, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2022 20th Century Studios All Rights Reserved.

The cast for the movie includes a blend of returning veterans and new faces.

Ben Whishaw is once more voicing Paddington, with Imelda Staunton as the vocal talent behind Aunt Lucy.

On screen, we’ll see Hugh Bonneville, Julie Walters, Madeleine Harris, Samuel Joslin and Jim Broadbent, while newcomers this time include Olivia Colman and Antonio Banderas.

Sally Hawkins, who played Mrs. Brown in the first two films, is replaced this time by Emily Mortimer.

And more recently, Rachel Zegler had to drop out of the role of Gina Cabot in support of the actors’ strike. Newcomer Carla Tous is taking over that part.

Who is making ‘Paddington in Peru’?

Timothée Chalamet as Willy Wonka in Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures’ ‘Wonka,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jaap Buittendijk. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

While Paul King directed the first two movies, he’s switched instead to make ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ prequel ‘Wonka’.

So, directing duties on ‘Paddington in Peru’ have now been handled by Dougal Wilson, working from a story by King and Simon Farnaby, which was turned into a script by Jon Foster, James Lamont and Mark Burton.

Filming recently wrapped after location and stage work in London, Peru and Colombia.

Here’s Wilson’s statement on finishing the production stage:

“It’s been a joy and an honor to shoot ‘Paddington in Peru’ with such a wonderful and talented cast and crew. 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.”

Hugh Grant in StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Other Movies Similar to ‘Paddington in Peru’:
- ‘Ted‘ (2012)
- ‘The Muppets‘ (2011)
- ‘Muppets Most Wanted‘ (2014)
- ‘Paddington‘ (2015)
- ‘Ted 2‘ (2015)
- ‘Paddington 2‘ (2018)
- ‘Peter Rabbit‘ (2018)
- ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox‘ (2009)
- ‘Isle of Dogs‘ (2018)
- ‘Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway‘ (2021)
- ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent‘ (2022)
Buy ‘Paddington’ Movies on Amazon
October 24, 2023
Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas and Rachel Zegler Join ‘Paddington in Peru’
(Left) Olivia Colman as Special Agent Sonya Falsworth in Marvel Studios’ ‘Secret Invasion,’ exclusively on Disney+. Photo by Gareth Gatrell. © 2023 MARVEL. (Center) Antonio Banderas in Lucasfilm’s ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.’ ©2022 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All Rights Reserved. (Right) Rachel Zegler as Anthea in New Line Cinema’s action adventure ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2023 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

After the first two ‘Paddington’ movies scored near universal acclaim, made more than $500 million worldwide and earned BAFTA nominations, a third is finally ready to go into production.

We’d already learned that it will be titled ‘Paddington in Peru’ and now, per Variety, there is some casting news to share with cameras due to roll next month.
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Much of it is good news on the casting front –– Olivia Colman (who seems to be everywhere at the moment, between ‘Secret Invasion’ and ‘The Bear’), Antonio Banderas and Rachel Zegler are all aboard.

But in a move that might cause consternation for ‘Paddington’ fans, Sally Hawkins won’t return as Mrs. Brown. Instead, Emily Mortimer will take over the role.

Emily Mortimer, writer, director, and co-star in ‘The Pursuit of Love’

Hawkins issued a statement about her decision to step away:

“For me it has felt the right time to hand the reins over to another, and one can’t get much better than the truly wonderful Emily Mortimer, she is extraordinarily special. She will embody the essence of Mary Brown and yet make it utterly her own. However, I am, and will always be in love with Paddington’s world. I already greatly miss my on- and off-screen family — the experience of making the first two films has truly been some of the best and most creative times I have had in the world of film. They both gave me so much joy. I will forever hold them so very close to my heart indeed.”

Fret not for the other usual stars, though –– Hugh Bonneville, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin will be back as Mr. Brown, Mrs. Bird, Mr. Gruber, Judy and Jonathan Brown respectively. Ben Whishaw is once again voicing Paddington, while Imelda Staunton will return to voice Aunt Lucy.

Which leads us on new information about the plot…

What will happen in ‘Paddington in Peru’?

StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Related Article: Third ‘Paddington’ Movie Will see the Cuddly Bear Character Head Back to Peru

As the title suggests, the story will follow our furry hero returning to Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. Paddington and the Brown Family embark on an unexpected journey through the Amazon rainforest and up to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Colman will play the reverend mother, a blithe and sunny guitar-playing nun who runs the home for retired bears. Banderas will play Hunter Cabot, a dashing and intrepid riverboat captain who offers to help the Brown family on their Peruvian adventure, while Zegler, will play Cabot’s daughter, Gina.

Who is making ‘Paddington 3’?

A scene from director Paul King’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Co-writer/director Paul King, who crafted the first two, has moved on to other projects, in particular musical prequel ‘Wonka’. Dougal Wilson, who hasn’t made a movie before, but has a wealth of short films, music videos and commercial experience, will be making his feature debut with this.

But King is still involved. He wrote the story with collaborators Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton with a screenplay by Burton, Jon Foster and James Lamont.

Wilson said of the new cast,

“I am absolutely delighted to be working with such a wonderful cast on the next installment of the ‘Paddington’ story. I was already an enormous fan of our returning actors, but for them to be joined by Olivia, Antonio, Emily and Rachel is beyond thrilling.”

‘Paddington in Peru’ has yet to set a release date.

Hugh Grant in StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Other Movies Similar to ‘Paddington in Peru’:
- ‘Ted‘ (2012)
- ‘The Muppets‘ (2011)
- ‘Muppets Most Wanted‘ (2014)
- ‘Paddington‘ (2015)
- ‘Ted 2‘ (2015)
- ‘Paddington 2‘ (2018)
- ‘Peter Rabbit‘ (2018)
- ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox‘ (2009)
- ‘Isle of Dogs‘ (2018)
- ‘Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway‘ (2021)
- ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent‘ (2022)
Buy ‘Paddington’ Movies on Amazon
June 26, 2023
‘Paddington 3’ is ‘Paddington in Peru’
A scene from director Paul King’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Great news for fans of quality family entertainment, marmalade sandwiches and Nicolas Cage –– Paddington will at last be back!

Yes, after the first two ‘Paddington’ movie scored near universal acclaim, made more than $500 million worldwide and earned BAFTA nominations, a third is finally ready to go into production.

It’ll build on the big impact that the previous movies had on the character’s cultural impression outside of his native Britain, where he’s been seen in videos taking tea with the late Queen for her last jubilee before she died in 2022.
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What will happen in ‘Paddington 3’?

The exact details for the new movie’s story are still under wraps, but that title suggests the little bear (voiced, most likely, by returning Paddington performer Ben Whishaw) will be headed back to his roots in Peru.

Of course, this has us wondering which of the other main characters –– particularly Hugh Bonneville as Mr. Brown and his family –– will appear this time.

StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Related Article: Third ‘Paddington’ Movie finds Director

Who is making ‘Paddington 3’?

A bigger question is to whether the new movie can live up to the reputation of the others.

And that mantle will be handled by someone other than co-writer/director Paul King, who crafted the first two –– Dougal Wilson, who hasn’t made a movie before, but has a wealth of short films, music videos and commercial experience, will be making his feature debut with this. So, no pressure!

But King –– who is in post-production on ambitious musical prequel ‘Wonka’ is still involved. He wrote the story with collaborators Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton with a screenplay by Burton, Jon Foster and James Lamont.

Wilson says,

“As a huge fan of the first two films, I am very excited (if not a little intimidated) to be continuing the story of ‘Paddington.’ It’s a massive responsibility, but all my efforts will be focused on making a third film that honors the love so many people have for this very special bear.”

And here’s what King had to say,

“After ten years of working on the ‘Paddington’ movies, I feel absurdly protective of the little bear, and I’m delighted that Dougal will be there to hold his paw as he embarks on his third big screen adventure. Dougal’s work is never less than astounding: funny, beautiful, heartfelt, imaginative, and totally original. Aunt Lucy once asked us to ‘Please Look After This Bear.’ I know Dougal will do so admirably.”

Oh, and in case the Cage reference right at the top had you scratching your head, you might want to check out the parodic version of himself he plays in ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’. Let’s just say he initially mocks the idea of ‘Paddington 2’ as classic cinema, but soon becomes a weepy convert…

Get the marmalade sandwiches ready, then, because while the new film doesn’t have a release date, cameras are set to start cranking in July, so there could be ‘Paddington’ goodness in our eyes before the end of next year.

Hugh Grant in StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

Other Movies Similar to ‘Paddington 3:’
- ‘Ted‘ (2012)
- ‘The Muppets‘ (2011)
- ‘Muppets Most Wanted‘ (2014)
- ‘Paddington‘ (2015)
- ‘Ted 2‘ (2015)
- ‘Paddington 2‘ (2018)
- ‘Peter Rabbit‘ (2018)
- ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox‘ (2009)
- ‘Isle of Dogs‘ (2018)
- ‘Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway‘ (2021)
- ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent‘ (2022)
Buy ‘Paddington’ Movies on Amazon
April 4, 2023
Movie Review: ‘Women Talking’

Rooney Mara stars as Ona in director Sarah Polley’s film ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

On limited release now before opening more widely in theaters on January 6th, ‘Women Talking’ represents fourth movie from actor and director Sarah Polley, and while it is certainly her stagiest effort, there are deep, dark and uncomfortable truths running through the script and an outstanding cast bringing those words to life.

‘Women Talking’ marks the second time that Polley has adapted someone else’s work, the first being 2006’s ‘Away from Her’. Here, she draws from Miriam Toews’ 2018 novel, itself written as a reaction to shocking true events that happened at the Manitoba Colony in Bolivia in 2011.

At the ultraconservative Mennonite community, girls and women woke up regularly to discover they had been sexually violated. The attacks were written off as “wild female imagination”, or else attributed to ghosts or the work of Satan.

In truth, a group of colony men had been spraying an animal anesthetic into neighboring houses at night, rendering everyone unconscious, and raping the women. The colony elders, deciding that the case was too difficult to handle themselves, called local police to take the perpetrators into custody.

(L to R) Rooney Mara stars as Ona, Claire Foy as Salome, Judith Ivey as Agata, Sheila McCarthy as Greta, Michelle McLeod as Mejal and Jessie Buckley as Mariche in director Sarah Polley’s film ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The movie’s story unfolds shortly after the men have been taken away, with several of the remaining men heading into town to post bail for their fellows. A group of the colony’s women gather secretly to discuss what to do in the wake of the revelations. Their reactions run the gamut from fearful to furious, and the debate covers all manner of subjects, but is focused mainly on a vote as to whether they stay, fight or leave the community altogether.

None of the options are perfect––some argue that if they leave, their Mennonite religion (though the name is never mentioned) teaches that God won’t be able to find them and they’ll be denied their place in Heaven. Others are burning with the desire to exact revenge on the perpetrators. And some are concerned that leaving means the boys left behind will have no one to care for them and guide them into becoming more responsible men than some of those who have come before them.

Even if you haven’t read the book, the film’s title will leave you in no illusion as to what to expect. Though that might turn some off, expecting an exercise in dialogue and tone, the intellectual and spiritual fireworks between the main characters more than makes up for an assumed lack of forward movement.

This is, by its very nature, a painful and difficult film to watch––for women who will identify with the dilemmas, and for men who should gain further insight into the high wire than women everywhere must walk on a daily basis when confronted with terrible behavior towards them.

Director Sarah Polley on the set of her film ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

A film as dialogue driven as this one lives and dies on the quality and skill of its cast, and here, Polley’s latest has its greatest strength. An actor for years before she began to devote more of her time to directing, she has a real eye for talent and knows how to work with fellow performers.

For ‘Women Talking’, Polley (along with casting directors John Buchan and Jason Knight) have assembled an exemplary ensemble of actors of various ages and stages of their careers, one of the finest gathering of women on screen in many years.

The likes of Rooney Mara, Judith Ivey, Claire Foy, Sheila McCarthy, Frances McDormand and Jessie Buckley anchor this one, clearly relishing the chance to show what they can do when they’re given the chance to take center stage.

While some, such as Mara, Foy and particularly McDormand, have been able to find roles that let them shine (with awards glory and nominations following), others are still breaking through, relegated to second string characters compared to their male counterparts. Even Foy, in movies such as ‘First Man’ had to make do with a less compelling wife role.

(L to R) Ben Whishaw stars as August, Rooney Mara as Ona and Claire Foy as Salome in director Sarah Polley’s film ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Here, there is no such restriction. The only real male character in the film is August (Ben Whishaw), whose family was excommunicated, but who has been allowed to return after securing an education in the outside world and teaching the boys (the young women are not considered worthy of lessons, even though the story is set in 2010).

Sweet-natured and thoughtful, he’s permitted to sit in so as to take the minutes of their meeting (one might argue that treating a secret gathering to decide urgent action like a council meeting to figure out a new pedestrian zone might seem unlikely, but the women are raised to be formal and all are detail-orientated.

Foy pulsates with anger as Salome, matched by Buckley’s Mariche, who is seen near the beginning attacking some of the men in custody with a scythe. She wants to see justice done––even if she must do it herself, but slowly starts to question her rage. Ivey as elder Agata, looks to remain calm, while McDormand’s Scarface Janz––who delivers monologues while rarely saying a word thanks to her expressions–– seethes and counsels.

(L to R) Jessie Buckley stars as Mariche and Judith Ivey as Agata in director Sarah Polley’s film
‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The entire cast is, without exception, impressive, whether it is young victims wandering through fields, stunned at learning what really happened to them, to others giggling and scampering their way through the meeting, not really cognizant of the huge issues being debated. And, of course, the leads, feasting on Polley’s adaptation, render some of the best performances of the year.

There is a somewhat stage bound feeling to the whole affair, though the crackling interchanges between the women certainly help overcome the idea that this might have been better served as a play. Though the most significant action is a census taker driving through the community looking to count heads, the tone, by turns meditative and electric, is a feature, not a bug.

Polley is becoming a first-rate director, and here she truly has a cast to match. ‘Women Talking’ might be a tough watch, but it’s worth paying attention to.

‘Women Talking’ receives 7 out of 10 stars.

(L to R) Michelle McLeod stars as Mejal, Sheila McCarthy as Greta, Liv McNeil as Neitje, Jessie Buckley as Mariche, Claire Foy as Salome, Kate Hallett as Autje, Rooney Mara as Ona and Judith Ivey as Agata in director Sarah Polley’s film, ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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January 8, 2023
‘Women Talking’ Interview: Actress Claire Foy

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Opening in theaters on January 6th is the new film from actress and director Sarah Polley (‘Take This Waltz’) entitled ‘Women Talking.’

Set in 2010, the women of an isolated religious community grapple with reconciling a brutal reality with their faith after it is revealed that men from their community drugged and raped the women at night for years.

The film stars Rooney Mara, Claire Foy, Jessie Buckley, Judith Ivey, Sheila McCarthy, Michelle McLeod, Liv McNeil, and Kate Hallett, Ben Whishaw and three-time Oscar-winner Frances McDormand.

Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with actress Claire Foy about her work on ‘Women Talking,’ the subject matter, her character’s choice, working with the cast, and director Sarah Polley.

Claire Foy stars in director Sarah Polley’s ‘Women Talking.’

You can read our full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Foy, Judith Ivy, Sheila McCarthy, Michelle McLeod, Liv McNeil, and Kate Hallett.

Moviefone: To begin with, can you talk about the urgency of the situation your character finds herself in at the beginning of the film?

Claire Foy: The urgency is that these women have been subjected to quite a tragic circumstance. They’ve been sexually abused, and they’ve just discovered this. My character wants to seek revenge on the men who have committed the crimes. So, the men are sent away, and they’ve got 24 hours until the men come back to the colony, and they have to decide what they’re going to do.

So, these women who are in the hayloft have been put into the position of deciding for the entire community of women whether they will stay and fight, whether they will stay and do nothing, or whether they will leave. They’re on a time pressure. They’ve only got 24 hours. Also, it’s about them getting to decide what world they want to live in. They’ve been given a tragic set of circumstances, and they get to see what they do with that, I suppose.

MF: Did you agree with your character’s point of view and what were some of the challenges you faced as an actress playing this role?

CF: Yeah, I really did. I really identified with Salome’s approach to the position that she’s in. I think everybody did. I think, all the actors in the film really stood by and championed their character’s point of view, but I really did. I felt that it was a very appropriate reaction for what she’d endured, and what her daughter had endured.

There were lots of challenges in that. I think she is challenged in the film a lot. Her position is challenged as all the women’s are, and it’s about them all coming to a conclusion collectively as a unit about what they will do. That means that sometimes you have to change your mind.

(L to R) Michelle McLeod stars as Mejal, Sheila McCarthy as Greta, Liv McNeil as Neitje, Jessie Buckley as Mariche, Claire Foy as Salome, Kate Hallett as Autje, Rooney Mara as Ona and Judith Ivey as Agata in director Sarah Polley’s film, ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

MF: What was it like for you on set surrounded by this incredible cast of actresses?

CF: It was really extraordinary. I was very grateful every day to be there. I was just watching the most extraordinary work being produced and being really proud of seeing the performances that people were able to put in, and also how dedicated we all were to what we were making, and to Sarah, and to the story. It was an incredibly supportive, collaborative, amazing environment to be in.

MF: Finally, what was your experience like working with director Sarah Polley?

CF: Just the best. She’s incredibly compassionate. She’s so intelligent. She’s so open to learning, and she’s so self-aware. She’s incredibly generous with every single person on set. She believes everybody has a right to be involved in the film they’re making and have an opinion. She’s what a director should be and what a leader should be. She’s so good at setting an example and leading people.

Director Sarah Polley on the set of her film ‘Women Talking,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Michael Gibson. © 2022 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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January 4, 2023
Third ‘Paddington’ Movie finds Director

StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’

The two ‘Paddington’ movies are, it’s fair to say, a cultural sensation. Offering gentle charm, family-friendly slapstick, and scenery-chewing villainy from the likes of Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, they’ve been critically adored, commercially successful (to the tune of more than $500 million at the worldwide box office) and, more recently, referenced in Nic Cage meta-action-comedy. ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’.

All eyes are naturally on what the bear from Peru does next, and who will be guiding his adventures, since Paul King, who made the first two movies, is busy with the ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ prequel ‘Wonka’, which stars Timothee Chalamet.

King and producer David Heyman have now anointed Dougal Wilson as the chosen successor in the director’s chair, though King will remain attached as an executive producer, having written the movie’s story with previous ‘Paddington’ collaborators Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton. Burton, Jon Foster, and James Lamont wrote the script.

Wilson is something of an unknown quantity on the movie front, as he’s never directed a feature before. But he’s had a busy career in commercials for the likes of AT&T, Apple, and IKEA, plus a wealth of music video experience. Perhaps most tellingly, he’s also created several Christmas commercials for British department store John Lewis, which are known for their sweet stories.

The new movie will start shooting next year in London and Peru, and presumably sees Paddington heading home to his native land. Exact plot details and casting have yet to be revealed, though we’d expect Ben Whishaw back to voice the title character (he mostly recently did the job for a Queen’s Jubilee celebration short), while the previous two films have both featured the likes of Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, and Julie Walters.

“After ten years of working on the ‘Paddington’ movies, I feel absurdly protective of the little bear, and I’m delighted that Dougal will be there to hold his paw as he embarks on his third big-screen adventure,” said King in a statement. “Dougal’s work is never less than astounding: funny, beautiful, heartfelt, imaginative, and totally original. Aunt Lucy once asked us to ‘Please Look After This Bear.’ I know Dougal will do so admirably.”

Wilson comments: “As a huge fan of the first two films, I am very excited (if not a little intimidated) to be continuing the story of Paddington. It’s a massive responsibility, but all my efforts will be focused on making a third film that honors the love so many people have for this very special bear.”

Producer David Heyman also appears happy with the choice: “After an exacting search, we’re delighted that the brilliant Dougal Wilson will be directing the third ‘Paddington’ film. A much-garlanded legend within the commercials world, we have long admired Dougal’s virtuoso work, and his gift for directing with heart, humor, surprise, and vivid imaginative flair. He’s a wonderfully inventive kindred spirit for Paddington’s latest adventure with the Browns, and we’re thrilled to be working with him.”

Given the 2023 shoot, we wouldn’t expect the movie much before the end of that year or some point in 2024.

Hugh Grant in StudioCanal’s ‘Paddington 2.’
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June 13, 2022
‘Fargo’ Season 4 Adds Jack Huston, Jason Schwartzman to Cast Led by Chris Rock

Audience

Chris Rock will be joined by an impressive ensemble cast for “Fargo” Season 4.

FX announced the new cast members, who include Jack Huston (“Boardwalk Empire”), Jason Schwartzman (“Grand Budapest Hotel”), and Ben Whishaw (“Mary Poppins Returns”).

The anthology drama created by Noah Hawley will shift to Kansas City in 1950. The location in that era is the crossroads and collisions of two migrations — African Americans fleeing the Jim Crow South and Italians immigrating from their homeland. They’re both fighting for a piece of the American dream via two crime syndicates.

Rock plays the head of one of those crime families, who has who has traded his youngest son to his enemy and must raise his enemy’s son as his own.

Huston will play a character named Odis Weff, while Schwartzman is Josto Fadda. Whishaw will portray Rabbi Milligan.

The other new cast members are Jessie Buckley (Oraetta Mayflower), Salvatore Esposito (Gaetano Fadda), Andrew Bird (Thurman Smutney), Jeremie Harris (Leon Bittle), Gaetano Bruon (Constant Calamita), Anji White (Dibrell Smutney), Francesco Acquaroli (Ebal Violante), Emyri Crutchfield (Ethelrida Pearl Smutney), and Amber Midthunder (Swanee Capps).

Season 4 begins production in Chicago this fall and is expected to premiere on FX in 2020.

July 18, 2019