I was surprised at just how much I loved the first Paddington film, and I was worried that the sequel would sink below my expectations; however, that wasn't the case at all. Paddington 2 — or Paddington Goes To Prison, as I like to call it — is as irresistibly good, if not better, than its predecessor. As far as sequels go, P2 ranks amongst the best. It feels like a cozy blanket, and it's warm and witty in ways that seems to be lacking from most children's films. Like last year's Brigsby Bear, the film is lighthearted, devoid of any true cynicism, and has its heart in the right place. And it's very obvious that a lot of care and attention went into every aspect of crafting this sequel, and while it's not wholly unique, it's a true pleasure to behold.

The obvious attribute to the Paddington films' charisma is their undeniable Wes Anderson vibe, which permeates through the sets, costumes and direction. This stylistic borrowing or homage is less prevalent in the second installment; however, the similarities to Grand Budapest Hotel can't totally be ignored. P2 finds director Paul King coming more into his own, less likely to lean too heavily on the Anderson aesthetic. Even though some aspects may feel slightly borrowed or familiar, the film never feels entirely derivative, and has the kind of heart thumping in its chest that only one Paddington Bear can bring to the table.