Sunday, November 24, 2024

Paddington 2 (2017)

 Some years ago the movie 'Paddington 2' made waves by surpassing 'Citizan Kane' as the most positively reviewed film on Rotten Tomatoes. That 'Paddington 2' was transformingly good became something of a cultural meme, one of the funnier gags in the 2022 movie 'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent' is built around this. So the only real reason I watched the original Paddington was so I could watch this sequel. All the buildup may have muted the impact, I really liked Paddington 2 but I haven't joined its cult.

What about the movie resonated with so many viewers? I think it's sweetness, humor, lovable characters, and I think on a subconscious level how damn well constructed it was, every set up pays off, there's no fat on this thing. While viewing it reminded me at times of an odd assortment of movies from 'It's a Wonderful Life' to 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' to the 1973 Vincent Price cult horror classic 'Theater of Blood'.

Brendan Gleeson and Hugh Grant's performances were standouts in a top flight cast. I also enjoyed little cameo type appearances by the likes of Jessica Haynes. So very enjoyable and sweet, and while I can appreciate it, I sadly wasn't awed. ***1/2

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