We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
One of the most beloved series of family movies to be released in the last decade comes in the form of “Paddington.” The trilogy of films, which follows the delightful adventures of the titular marmalade-loving spectacled bear created by author Michael Bond, has enchanted audiences with its effortless charm and irresistible heart. Much of that can be attributed to the titular bear himself, voiced by Emmy-winner Ben Whishaw.
Ben Whishaw’s voice performance as Paddington has been universally acclaimed, thanks to the actor’s approach to the character with warmth, tenderness, and sincerity. For as lauded a performance as Whishaw’s turned out to be, some may be surprised to learn that he was not the original choice to voice modern cinema’s most beloved bear, because an acclaimed Academy Award-winner was originally cast in the role.
Colin Firth was involved with Paddington for quite some time
Film producer David Heyman, whose most well-known producing credits include all eight of the “Harry Potter” movies, announced in September 2013 that production on a live-action “Paddington” film was underway, with Colin Firth tapped to voice the titular bear. Firth, who won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in “The King’s Speech,” was to join the likes of Nicole Kidman and Hugh Bonneville under the direction of Paul King in what appeared to be a match made in heaven.
However, despite Colin Firth’s undeniable talents, he ended up withdrawing from “Paddington” during post-production. Prior to his eventual replacement by Ben Whishaw, Firth released the following statement, confirming his departure from the project:
“It’s been bittersweet to see this delightful creature take shape and come to the sad realization that he simply doesn’t have my voice. I’ve had the joy of seeing most of the film and it’s going to be quite wonderful. I still feel rather protective of this bear and I’m pestering them all with suggestions for finding a voice worthy of him.”
Why Ben Whishaw was the better choice to voice Paddington
As it turns out, the parting of ways between Colin Firth and “Paddington” was mutual amongst both parties. Given that Firth was heavily involved in the film up until his departure, it is clear that he and director Paul King attempted to find the right voice to bring the beloved British children’s character to the screen in a way that truly honored his legacy. However, the team behind the film ultimately wanted a more youthful, innocent voice, and Firth’s voice was deemed “too mature” for a character who evoked such childlike wonder and curiosity.
Oddly enough, before auditioning for the film, Ben Whishaw admitted that he had no relationship to the “Paddington Bear” books at all. Some might often consider an artist’s reverence for the source material a prerequisite for their involvement, but sometimes recruiting someone with little to no connection whatsoever allows for a fresher, more honest portrayal without the need to feel held back by the weight of legacy. Whishaw was ultimately the perfect actor for the job, but despite his departure, perhaps Colin Firth can return to the series as the next antagonist in a fourth film.
“Paddington in Peru” is now available to own on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, DVD, and digitally. It is also available to stream on Netflix. You can read /Film’s review of the film here.
Source link
