The Paddington franchise has quickly morphed from what initially seemed like a niche UK-centric brand into a worldwide phenomenon. After the success of both films – especially Paddington 2, which will likely go down as one of the sweetest movies of all time – attention has now naturally shifted to a possible third instalment.
A third movie is looking likely, according to Collider, however things are complicated by the newfound popularity of Paul King, the director of the first two films. His success with the marmalade-loving bear has led to him being courted for some big projects. He’s already set to helm the next live-action Pinocchio, while he’s also tentatively attached to direct a Willy Wonka movie for Warner Bros.
So what does that mean for Paddington 3? Producer David Heyman spoke with Collider who confirmed a third film was in the works, but that it will likely move ahead without King:
“I don’t think Paul King will direct the third. He did the first two – he and I are working on another project together […] He’s very special, Paul. We’re developing a third Paddington. We haven’t got a script yet, we’ve got a treatment which we’re still working on”.
That sound you hear is the collective disappointment of Paddington fans putting down their marmalade sandwiches in sadness. However, Heyman did confirm that King will be involved in the third film in some capacity:
“Paul is involved in it, I wanted him to be involved in it because I think he’s such a significant voice, but I don’t think he’ll direct it […] He comes up with the idea with Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton and then they develop it and come back for more, back and forth, and then it’ll get written and Paul will come in and stir it up a little bit. But he’s an incredible collaborator, Paul. Very positive, very supportive”.
Heyman did also go on to say that Paddington 3 won’t get made unless everyone involved agree that it can be on the same level as the previous films. That likely means a hunt for a talented director passionate about the films, unless they decide to promote someone from in-house.
Either way, Paddington 3 looks likely to happen, but without King in the director’s it chair will likely have a slightly different feel to it. Whoever comes in to replace him will have some big shoes to fill.
#Peace.Love.Paddington
