Emily Mortimer On Replacing Sally Hawkins As Mrs Brown In Paddington In Peru

The Browns' home-filled with warmth and memories-remains a central symbol in Paddington in Peru, representing the enduring emotional bonds that define the family. Joining this beloved world is Emily Mortimer, who steps into the role of Mrs. Brown, previously played by Sally Hawkins.

Mortimer admits she was initially apprehensive. "I was nervous picking up the baton from Sally, who so indelibly became Mrs. Brown. Her relationship with Paddington was at the heart of the original films. But the pull of this world was too strong to resist. I've loved every second and just hope I can do the character justice."

What drew her in was the inventive script. "I just loved the adventure-it's so enjoyable and imaginative," she says. "Every scene feels like something you've never quite seen before." That sense of wonder, she believes, is what makes Paddington's story so enduring.

The film finds the Browns in transition: Judy is preparing for university, Jonathan is retreating into teenhood, and Mr. Brown is buried in work. "Mary is going through a slight identity crisis," Mortimer explains. "She's starting to ask who she is without her children constantly around."

Mortimer was also captivated by the set's intricate design. "There wasn't a corner that didn't take your breath away. From stained glass shaped like oranges to a secret Amazon map behind carved wood panels-the attention to detail was extraordinary."

She also reflects on Paddington's broader meaning. "He's a symbol of a radical kind of love-open, boundaryless, and deeply kind. He belongs everywhere, and that message of connection is powerful for both kids and adults."

Paddington in Peru releases in cinemas in English and Hindi on April 18th.