"Paddington" movie surprises with good reviews; Simple, direct plot about talking bear gives moviegoers their money's worth

By Staff Writer

Jan 18, 2015 04:11 PM EST

Reviews for "Paddington" are in, and according to critics, the movie's simplicity is what makes it unique and worth the watch. The movie is met with unexpectedly good reviews despite low expectations for January movies.

Forget complicated plots and twist-"Paddington" offers a simple story, and according to Slash Film, the movie "gives people their money's worth by being simple, direct, and having a good story."

"Paddington," the story of a walking, talking bear from "Darkest Peru," sees the adventure of the bear with the same name as he moves to London in search of a home. Rather than the usual clamor around an unusual walking bear, the movie shows a place where reactions to "Paddington" do not take screen time. Instead, it is implied that it is normal for him to exist, which apparently sets the tone of the film.

Slate also reports the movie being "warm, gentle, well-acted, funny without being stupid." The movie has its viewers feeling content with its visually stylish and inventive narration of Michael Bond's book series character.

Apart from its simplistic approach to what a movie should be, critics also commend the movie for having strong family dynamics, with everyone included in the adventure, including the family nanny.

The titular bear is voiced by Ben Whishaw, who replaced Colin Firth. The movie also features Hugh Bonneville and Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins. Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin also star as Hawkins' and Bonneville's children, comprising the Brown family.

Also in the movie is Nicole Kidman playing the role of a museum curator with cruel intentions. Kidman's performance is lauded for being a good villain.

Peter Capaldi also joins the cast as the Browns' neighbor, while the family nanny is portrayed by Julie Walters. Kim Broadbent is seen as a shopkeeper.

"Paddington" is helmed by "The Mighty Boosh" director Paul King.  King also co-wrote the screenplay, sharing the credit with Hamish McColl. According to critics, King succeeded in using visual effects to characterize the Browns' lives.  

Rope of Silicon also says, "This story about a bear becoming part of a middle-class British family is exactly the movie I wanted to see." The movie is apparently not like other "ghastly" January films.

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