DVD Corner

Paddington 2 4K UHD Review

“Paddington 2” is a top tier sequel. 

In this sequel to “Paddington,” the titular marmalade loving bear has settled in nicely with the human Brown family in Windsor Gardens in London. Not only has he become part of the community, but he has made many friends. The story kicks into gear when Paddington begins to look for a present for his aunt Lucy. He comes across a pop-up book of London which he thinks would be perfect for her since she always wanted to visit the city. In order to afford the book, he starts working odd jobs. It does not go well. It seems Paddington isn’t the only one after the pop-up book though as a washed up actor (Phoenix) winds up stealing the book in a disguise and essentially frames Paddington for the theft. Paddington is sent to prison for 10 years while Phoenix uses the book to locate a hidden treasure. In typical Paddington fashion, he doesn’t let prison get him down completely as he ends up changing the whole place. He makes everyone happier and inspires culinary creations for numerous individuals. With Paddington in prison, the Brown family is trying to prove the bear’s innocence. Paddington, meanwhile, plans a prison break with a few prisoners (including Knuckles) in order to find the real thief and clear his name. Of course, nothing goes smoothly.

Skillfully directed by Paul King and written by King and Simon Farnaby, 2017’s “Paddington 2” has become the gold standard of sequels. It gained national attention for its glowing critical (and audience) reaction and its surprising quality even became a running joke in “The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent.” No one could have expected how good this movie would be, but it’s proof positive that you can make art out of a franchise. More importantly, “Paddington 2” is the type of positive movie we need more of. It’s not dark nor is it cynical. It’s a movie with a big heart and a kind and polite central character who looks for the good in people. He’s also a charming soul who just makes everyone’s lives better in some way. He’s so genuinely likable that you forget that he’s a CGI bear.

“Paddington 2” is aided by a stellar cast. Ben Whishaw is note perfect in the title role. There’s also a plethora of memorable supporting performances from Jim Broadbent, Sally Hawkins, and Hugh Bonneville. The real MVPs here are Hugh Grant as the scene-stealing villainous actor Phoenix and Brendan Gleeson as the mean prisoner Knuckles who becomes a better person after encountering Paddington. 

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? The colors are largely striking on this 4K release, but sometimes appear a bit too bright. It’s a minor quibble though as this is a top notch 4K transfer nonetheless.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? The music, dialogue, and sound effects sound sharp with this pleasing Atmos track.

Extras:

* “The (Once) Famous Faces Of Phoenix Buchanan”- Another character featurette.

* Commentary by Paul King
* “Paddington: The Bear Truth”- A featurette on the titular character.
* “How To Make A Marmalade Sandwich”- A recipe video.
* “Music Video With Phoenix Buchanan”- A musical number.
* “The Magical Mystery Of Paddington’s Pop-Up Book”- A featurette on the item that is integral to the story.
* “The Browns And Paddington: A Special Bond”- The title says it all.
* “Knuckles: A Fistful Of Marmalade”- A featurette on the character.

March 27, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Ben Whishaw, Brendan Gleeson, Hugh Grant, Paddington, Paddington 2 4K UHD Review