Paddington 3 gets title Paddington in Peru; Music video helmer Dougal Wilson will direct lovable bear

Last Updated on June 14, 2022

Pack your bags, and bring a few extra jars of marmalade because Paddington Bear is going to Peru! Award-winning commercials filmmaker Dougal Wilson has been tapped to direct the latest installment of the hit family film franchise, Paddington in Peru. Formally known only be the title of Paddington 3, the lovable bear’s Peruvian adventure marks the filmmaker’s theatrical feature debut. Wilson is taking over directing duties from Paul King, who helmed the first two Paddington movies.

Paddington in Peru will begin principal photography in 2023, filming on location in London and Peru. As you may recall, Peru is Paddington’s native home, meaning the bear might be going back to get in touch with his roots.

“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,” said King. “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.”

“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,” said Wilson. “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.”

King remained an executive producer on Paddington 3 and co-wrote the story for the film with Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton. Burton, Jon Foster, and James Lamont wrote the script. Studio Canal and Heyday Films are partnering for the project.

The first two Paddington movies grossed more than $500 million at the worldwide box office. Each film has a 97 percent and 99 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, respectively, with the second considered one of the greatest movies of all time.

Wilson has yet to direct a feature film, though he’s a celebrated helmer of music videos for bands like LCD Soundsystem and Bat For Lashes. He’s also shot commercials for brands like Apple, AT&T, and IKEA. I’m a massive fan of both bands, so if Wilson is good enough for them, he’s good enough for me.

What do you think about Wilson taking over directing duties for Paddington in Peru? Are you excited we have a title for Paddington 3? Are you excited to follow the bear on another heartfelt adventure? Let us know in the comments section below.