Paddington 2 (2017)

Paddington 2 is not only a blockbuster hit, but also one of the most critically acclaimed movies of all time, across all genres. The sequel to the 2014 movie centering on Michael Bond’s beloved character, it’s widely regarded as being even better than its predecessor, and Hugh Grant said in an interview with Vanity Fair: “I genuinely believe it may be the best film I’ve ever been in.” 

Paddington is happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens, where the bear has become a popular member of the community, spreading joy and marmalade 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. He embarks upon a series of odd jobs to earn the money to buy it. But when the book is stolen, Paddington is framed for the crime. Now, it’s up to the Browns, some new friends, and a foolproof plan to unmask the real thief and clear the beloved bear’s name.

Golden Globe winner Ben Whishaw voices Paddington, Oscar nominee Imelda Staunton plays Aunt Lucy, and Golden Globe nominee Michael Gambon is the voice of Uncle Pastuzo. Hugh Grant is the OTT villain, Phoenix Buchanan, Golden Globe nominee Hugh Bonneville and Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins play Mr and Mrs Brown, and Oscar nominee Dame Julie Walters is Mrs Bird. 

“Paul King did the unthinkable and made a sequel to his insta-classic, yet more charming, inventive and across-the-generations entertaining,” says The Guardian. “It’s humour with the citrus tang of top quality thick-cut marmalade.”