With wit, charm, intelligence, and truth in the story telling, this film “Paddington 2” is perfect for a date, for time with your child, and really for all people who can enjoy a good ending quite frankly.

The story structure is very solid and has quick witted lines (as many Britons are known to have), containing many elements of unpredictable details. Well paced, it will be satisfying for all age group, with some insertions that not everyone will perhaps pick up in the first viewing; and, generally it should be said that it is all around well-crafted.

With no political persuasions or slant to convey, I was pleased to find that the aim of the story is more importantly to re-introduce morality to young persons and families. At large, to all of community, that seems to be all too often unwilling to share or to let go of burdens in trust.

Visually stunning, the child and adult will undoubtedly appreciate the craftsmanship of the mix between computer assisted realism and live action. It’s really “seamless”.

As for the story, it is endearing and clean, doing great justice to children and keeping in good continuity with the original “franchise”.

As for theme, what I like is the reinforced definitions of “home”. Many of us are familiar with the quotation, “home is where the heart is.” And, while that is true, this story goes deeper to explain dimensions of “home” and “love”. It explores themes of loyalty, partnership, patience, collaboration, trust, risk, and sticking one’s neck out for others. This is what was particularly moving about the film to me personally.

Watching this film, brought my inner child to the surface; and as I was overjoyed, I grew quite teary eyed at many moments throughout it. I consider it masterfully made and quite a masterpiece. Much in the same way that the Disney’s “Jungle Book” remake did.

The thread of this story, is that while Paddington unknowingly bumps into a treasure which he intends to give to his long lost relative (who saved his life as a cub), when a thief covets the same gift, he resolves to frame Paddington for the theft of it. And believe it, Paddington does his share of suffering as a consequence.

Tender and warmhearted, through the story and action (expressions as well), this film accomplishes the delivery of the message: true, pure, and noble motives rule at the end of the day; conquering jealousy, artifice, and cruelty.

Touching upon the significance of friendship and justice, the best side of humanity is shown throughout the film, with a proper peppering and restoration of Paddington’s good name.

While Paddington does get his wish, I will not say exactly how it ends, because the end is sweet.

Doing great service to the original children’s book author and Paddington fans also, the thematic realism and adult themes are perfectly balanced with comedy, charm in story telling, a strong cast, and excellent story pace.

One strong take-away, is the message that no one can duplicate the meaning of your gift. A gift of pure love, might be taken by an imposter… but ultimately in the end, with luck, risk, and determination, the truth of who and what belongs to whom, cannot be stolen forever or separated for ever. Sadly, in today’s world it becomes more difficult to ensure that this is so, but hope is essential always.

Introducing heavy themes to children, wide-eye and entranced, your child will know that not all is wrong in the world. And, they will look to you, to find out that you enjoy the journey as much as they. This film gets a big “star”, as far as I am concerned. I recommend it highly. The next movie I intend to see and review is: “Ferdinand”.