This past weekend, “Paddington in Peru” stole the hearts of audiences across the UK and Ireland, achieving an outstanding box office launch that marks the biggest opening of the year for a British-produced film. With an impressive three-day haul of £9.65 million (approximately $12.4 million), this delightful sequel not only surpassed the previous “Paddington” films but also established itself as the most significant launch for Studiocanal to date. The debut figures clearly indicate that the lovable bear, who has endeared himself to families since his first appearance in 2014, continues to resonate strongly with audiences.
“Hugh Bonneville and family return to accompany our beloved bear on another journey—one filled with mystery and humor,” comments film industry analyst Sarah Fisher. This newest film outperformed the original “Paddington” which opened with £5.1 million, and its sequel, which debuted at £8.2 million. It’s evident that the popularity of the franchise has only grown, reflecting not just commercial success but also a sense of joy and nostalgia that the character evokes in viewers.
The cumulative gross of the previous two films exceeded $600 million globally, suggesting a robust fan base that has remained loyal over nearly a decade. The latest installment attracted around 1.2 million attendees in its opening weekend, situating it as one of the year’s top performers across all film releases—surpassed only by blockbuster sequels like “Deadpool” and “Inside Out 2.” Comparatively, “Paddington in Peru” outpaced notable titles such as “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” and “Mary Poppins Returns,” indicative of its wide appeal and strong marketing campaign.
Screened in a remarkable 732 cinemas, it holds the record for the widest release of the year so far, enhancing accessibility for families eager to catch another Paddington adventure. The film’s performance consequently ranks as the sixth largest British film opening in the last decade, and the tenth largest family film in the same timeframe—a noteworthy achievement for any production company.
Based on Michael Bond’s beloved children’s series, the narrative of “Paddington in Peru” invites audiences to take part in Paddington’s quest as he journeys to Peru to uncover the mystery surrounding Aunt Lucy’s disappearance. This premise is compelling enough to engage both children and adults alike, making it a family favorite. Joining the cast are notable actors including Imelda Staunton, Antonio Banderas, and Olivia Colman, adding star power that likely contributed to enticing audiences into theaters.
Critics have responded positively to the film, with one reviewer noting that “the story of the little bear welcomed by strangers remains magical,” a testament to the film’s enduring charm. With a collaborative writing effort involving Paul King, Simon Farnaby, and Mark Burton, the script manages to retain the whimsical spirit of the original stories while introducing new elements to keep the narrative fresh and exciting.
Looking ahead, Studiocanal has laid out plans for the international distribution of “Paddington in Peru” across multiple territories, including France, Germany, and Australia, while Sony is set to handle North American rights with a release planned for January 2025. Such strategic distribution plans capitalize on the film’s early domestic success, promising a bright future for this latest installment of Paddington’s adventures.
With its powerful opening weekend and positive reception, “Paddington in Peru” is a delightful reminder of the simple joys found in family-oriented storytelling, securing its place not just in box offices, but also in the hearts of many.