Paula Hammond - Features EditorBritish actor Sir Michael Hordern famously said that God, King Lear, and Paddington Bear were his most challenging roles. And while we may argue that Alanis Morissette was probably a better deity, and Derek Jacobi was undoubtedly a better Lear, Hordern simply was Paddington.
This month, Fabulous Films continues their merry romp down memory lane with another timeless masterpiece from British kid’s TV: Paddington Bear.
The distinctive look of the show was designed by the series’ animator, designer, and director, Ivor Wood, whose stop-frame Paddington, and 2D cut-out scenery, gave the show a slightly surreal edge. When paired with Hordern’s dead-pan delivery, Paddington Bear quickly became a family favourite. Almost 50 years after it made its BBC TV debut, it remains one of the most successful children’s programs that the UK has ever produced.
Fabulous Films’ re-issue — on DVD and blu-ray — includes all 56 episodes broadcast between 1976 and 1980 plus the three longer specials, which have now been restored and remastered in Hi-Definition for the first time. The special limited boxset also includes a slipcase with a 3D Pop-Up Paddington Scene Artwork.
Paddington Bear was based on the best-selling books by Michael Bond, whose first Paddington adventure, “A Bear called Paddington” formed the foundation of a veritable bear empire, comprising 29 books, three TV series, two films, a musical, and a mind-boggling array of merchandise. But as Paddington in Peru hits our screens, it’s well worth revisiting this 1970s gem. It may not have the glitz of a big film adaptation, but these five-minute episodes are exactly what’s needed to bring calm and contentment to your little ones … and maybe mom and dad too.
Extras include:
- Barry Leith Film Fair Animator Feature.
- Paddington Restored Feature.
- Marmalade Sandwich Feature.
