The excruciating delay appears to be coming to an end, and we can break out the marmalade sandwiches in joy – Paddington 3 is scheduled to begin shooting this summer.
The threequel, which follows the exploits of the legendary Paddington Bear, who was created by author Michael Bond and can be located at the London railway station, has been in the works for some time. It was originally scheduled to begin filming in the second quarter of 2022, but that deadline passed.
Then, last summer, it was revealed that the picture, allegedly titled Paddington in Peru, would now begin principal filming in 2023, with the crew shooting on site in both London and Peru. We strained our hearing for any sign of a coming (very) polite bear, last seen in an adored cartoon for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last June.
Then, distressingly, Paddington voice performer Ben Whishaw said as recently as February that he wasn’t even positive if the movie was ‘happening’ anymore as it had all gone ‘silent’.
Dougal Wilson makes his directing début with Paddington 3.
‘We have long been big fans of Dougal’s work, his stunning visual inventiveness, his narrative, heart, passion, and humour,’ said Studiocanal CEO Anna Marsh and EVP of global production Ron Halpern.
‘We are overjoyed that Dougal has agreed to helm the third Paddington picture. We are excited to return Paddington to Peru for his next big screen journey.’
It’s believed (we hope!) that Whishaw has been fully updated and will return, along with other important cast members such as Hugh Bonneville and Sally Hawkins as the Browns, Dame Julie Walters, Imelda Staunton, and Michael Gambon.
Director Wilson, who has worked on commercials and music videos prior to Paddington, previously ‘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 told The Hollywood Reporter:
‘It’s a massive responsibility, but all my efforts will be focused on making a third film that honours the love so many people have for this very special bear.’
Executive producer and professional Paddington champion King added: ‘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.’
Paddington 3 is yet to receive a released date.