Last night I saw an interesting movie on ABC iview called ‘Paddington’. As we all know, Paddington is an underground station in London and it’s one of the longest served stations. However, this movie is about the ‘Bear’. Yes, you guessed it, the well-loved Paddington bear!
Paddington is originally from Peru. He lived happily with his uncle and auntie in the forest until an earthquake ruined their peaceful lives and killed his uncle Pastuso. Untie Lucy sent Paddington to London and told him he would be loved and adopt by people live in London. Paddington is quite familiar with English and it’s culture all thanks to a kind English explorer. The English explorer was not only teaching them English and also left uncle and auntie with a recipe of how to make marmalade. Paddington was raised up by hearing those stories.
Paddington didn’t know anyone in London. He arrived in London only with the red hat that Uncle Pastuso passed on him and a name tag on his neck. But luckily, he met Mrs Brown and her family on the first night he arrived at Paddington Station. The Browns provided Paddington a lovely home. And the rest is the history.
So basically, it’s a simple story targeting for young kids. I enjoyed seeing the movie too because it’s full of English cultural references. For example, in the beginning of the movie, the great explorer gave uncle Pastuso and auntie Lucy a bottle of marmalade and told them it’s enough for a whole day vitamin their body need. For anyone who knows a bit about English culture, they will understand the importance of marmalade in traditional English meals.
Another thing that reminds me of English culture is the way Paddington dresses. After one night staying at the Browns, Paddington were give a blue duffel coat with wooden bottoms and a pair of rain boots. Paddington dressed just like those normal English kids. So adorable.
Of course in the movie there are more to Paddington than marmalade and duffle coat. You can find lots of London landmarks in the movie, such as the Big Ban and underground tubes. From my perspective, I was impressed to see how difficult for Paddington to adjust his life in London. I know the Paddington 2 is in production. I like the close relationship Paddington has with auntie Lucy so I hope we will see her again.
As a refugee himself, Paddington Bear’s identity draws a lot of attention these days. When people discuss the issue of European refugees, they like using Paddington as an example to show how generous British people were during/ after World War Two. I think that’s an interesting point of view, though a bit beyond the creator’s original intention.
I am planning to visit the Paddington station while I am in London this September. I want to see the beautiful platforms as well as the Paddington Bear statue. If I can, I will buy one of those stuffed toys. I am really looking forward to it.
