New director Dougal Wilson takes the reins of Paddington In Peru

Work is due to start on the third Paddington movie – to be called Paddington In Peru – it has been revealed.

The news, confirmed by producers Studiocanal,  comes  six years after the second film in the family comedy  franchise

Make that a triple Marmalade sandwich

Paddington in Peru starts filming this July! We can't wait to see the return of our favourite bear #Paddington3 #PaddingtonInPeru pic.twitter.com/tsuo5WtaHj

— StudiocanalUK (@StudiocanalUK) April 3, 2023

Its plot has been devised by Paul King, Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton – who worked on the previous two films – with Burton writing the screenplay with Jon Foster and James Lamont, a partnership whose credits include Greg Davies’ Cuckoo and the Harry Hill Movie.

As previously announced, music videos director Dougal Wilson is making his feature debut with Paddington In Peru.

King, who directed the first two instalments, told Deadline: ‘After ten years of working on the Paddington movies, I feel absurdly protective of the little bear, and I’m delighted that Dougal will be there to hold his paw as he embarks on his third big screen adventure.

‘Dougal’s work is never less than astounding: funny, beautiful, heartfelt, imaginative, and totally original. Aunt Lucy once asked us to "Please Look After This Bear." I know Dougal will do so admirably.’

Wilson added: ‘As a huge fan of the first two films, I am very excited (if not a little intimidated) to be continuing the story of Paddington.  

‘It’s a massive responsibility, but all my efforts will be focussed on making a third film that honours the love so many people have for this very special bear.’

No casting has been confirmed but Ben Whishaw is likely to voice the title character again, while stars of the previous films have included Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie Walters, Imelda Staunton and Michael Gambon.

Published: 3 Apr 2023