This past weekend, “Paddington in Peru” delighted audiences across the UK and Ireland, marking a significant milestone in British film history with the highest box office opening of 2023 for a British-produced movie. The film not only surpassed expectations by earning £9.65 million (approximately $12.4 million) in its first three days but also set a record for Studiocanal, solidifying the charming bear’s position as a cinematic favorite. This impressive start outshined previous entries in the franchise, with the original Paddington (2014) debuting at £5.1 million and its sequel hitting £8.2 million in 2017. Combined, these two titles grossed an astounding $600 million globally, showing the enduring international appeal of this beloved character.
Attracting an audience of around 1.2 million since its release, “Paddington in Peru” significantly outperformed other major releases, ranking as the third-biggest opening of the year so far. The film’s success can particularly be highlighted when compared with other recent hits like “Deadpool” and “Inside Out 2.” In fact, its opening weekend outdid popular titles such as “The Super Mario Bros Movie,” “Incredibles 2,” and “Mary Poppins Returns,” showing a strong public appetite for family-oriented films. With a release across 732 cinemas—the widest ever for this year—the film further cements Paddington’s cultural significance.
At the heart of “Paddington in Peru” lies the quintessentially British tale of adventure and discovery, continuing the legacy established by author Michael Bond. The story kicks off with Paddington receiving a distressing letter from Peru about the mysterious disappearance of his dear Aunt Lucy from her idyllic jungle home. Joined by the Brown family, the film blends nostalgia with excitement, as they navigate the lush Amazon rainforest and the majestic mountains of Peru, creating a visual feast for audiences. The ensemble cast, featuring notable names such as Hugh Bonneville, Imelda Staunton, and Antonio Banderas, enhances the film’s charm and allure.
Behind this enchanting tale is a talented team, including writers Paul King, Simon Farnaby, and Mark Burton. The screenplay, crafted by Mark Burton, Jon Foster, and James Lamont, maintains the magical simplicity that fans have come to love, while also incorporating fresh elements that keep the story engaging. Critics are already praising the film, with Stephanie Bunbury from Deadline lauding its enduring magic and appeal. This speaks volumes regarding the film’s ability to resonate with both children and adults alike.
Studiocanal’s plans for “Paddington in Peru” extend far beyond the UK, with distribution set in countries including France, Germany, and Australia, alongside partnerships for releases in China and Japan. Moreover, Sony is poised to handle the North American release, slated for January 17, 2025, which promises to introduce Paddington’s latest adventure to a broader audience. As the film continues to break records and win hearts, it is poised to solidify Paddington’s position as an iconic symbol of British cinema for generations to come.