Paddington 2 (2017), directed by Paul King

Absurd and very funny, this sequel sees the Peruvian marmalade-loving bear trying to earn enough money to buy his aunt a special gift for her hundredth birthday. Ben Whishaw is utterly convincing as the naïve bear, with Sally Hawkins a standout as his substitute mother Mrs Brown. Hugh Grant is in his element as the has-been actor Phoenix Buchanan, who stands in Paddington’s way and sets him up for a fall. Neat little cameos from the likes of Noah Taylor, Maggie Steed, Tom Conti and a host of British character actors add to the fun, along with a fabulous steam train. A charming tale with a lovely message of inclusivity, Paddington 2 is one of those family films that offers laughs on many levels, entertaining both kids and adults because of, rather than despite the ridiculous plot.