Review: Paddington 2 - Charming and fun filled family movie that is sure to bring a smile to even the grumpiest of faces!

With the first in the series being such a surprising delight and having my two children (both under 7) accompany me to a matinee showing, Paddington 2 was always going to be a pleasant experience and one that I was looking forward to with great excitement. What I was not expecting however, was that this sequel was even better than the original 2014 feature and has nudged it's way high on the list of best family movies that you will see this year!
Paddington 2  finds the lovable bear happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens, where he has become a most popular member of the community, spreading joy, fun and frolics  wherever he goes. While searching for the perfect present for his beloved Aunt Lucy's hundredth birthday, Paddington spots a unique pop-up book in Mr. Gruber's antique shop, and embarks upon a series of odd jobs to buy it. But when the book is stolen, and Paddington is made the fall guy, it's up to our furry friend and the Browns to unmask the slippery thief.
With BAFTA nominated director Paul King again at the helm, Paddington 2 was obviously going to display the same slick and stylish spectacle as it's predecessor. With co-writer Simon Farnaby (Mindhorn) on board now however, the audience is treated to a sharper, wittier and overall more charming script and plot than the first film. Visually also Paddington 2 has taken it up a notch, with some sequences (the London pop-up book scene being one) breathtaking and a joy for the senses.
The supporting cast again almost steal the show with the Brown family along with a list of heartening cameos being joined by a marvellous turn by Brendan Gleeson, obviously having great fun in the role as convict Nuckels McGinty and Hugh Grant laying it on thick as the multi-faced vain villain Phoenix Buchanan.
The film itself, is one of those rare creatures that invokes a subtle smile on the viewers face from the very first shot and by and large stays there until the final credits roll!
After the pain inducing spectacle of last weeks Murder on the Orient Express, it was a refreshing and pleasant surprise to enjoy what is sure to be a box office and critical success and most importantly lots of fun for all the family! Marmalade anyone?
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