Paddington Film Features Replicated Artworks from Oxford Hall

It has been disclosed that the Peruvian setting for the third Paddington film drew inspiration from a location much closer to home. *Paddington in Peru* premiered in cinemas on 8 November, chronicling the journey of the renowned bear, clad in his blue duffel coat and red hat, as he returns to his native country. Also included in the film are three replica paintings, modeled after original artworks housed at Campion Hall in Oxford. These artworks are displayed on the walls of the Home for Retired Bears, which the titular bear visits in the movie to see his Aunt Lucy. The original paintings, which depict “really remarkable looking” angels adorned with the clothing and weaponry of Baroque musketeers, were donated to the hall in 2015. Hannah Bironzo, from Campion Hall, characterized them as “really quite incredible and flamboyant.” In 2020, the art team working on *Paddington three* contacted the hall regarding their “fantastic collection” and inquired about incorporating them into the film, Ms. Bironzo informed the BBC. She stated, “They chose their three favourite angels and created really beautiful replicas.” The team at Marmalade Films, the production company responsible for the Paddington series, spent approximately a year creating the paintings, with assistance from Peter Davidson, the hall’s art curator. Ms. Bironzo described the replicas as “fantastic.” She further commented, “In this day and age of AI, it’s amazing that they have an artist team who have painstakingly copied these paintings – and they are pretty much as good as the originals.” Regarding the visibility of the works in the film, viewers might require keen eyesight. Ms. Bironzo noted, “If anyone’s watched it, you might be able to see them in the Home for Retired Bears on the walls, although I will just say that it’s quite tricky to spot them.” She added, “You might need some binoculars.” Marmalade Films recently returned the three replica paintings to Campion Hall, where they are slated for future exhibition. Mr. Davidson received a special acknowledgment for his help, in the form of an “adorable” postcard of gratitude from the Peruvian Bear himself. Campion Hall is recognized as one of the four permanent private halls of the University of Oxford, and it also possesses an extensive art collection. For updates, BBC Oxfordshire can be followed on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.