FILM NIGHT AT SANDON (15^th April)

Our film for April is for all the family, ‘Paddington’; this is not just one for the youngsters but a great movie for adults too. Don’t believe it? Come along and be surprised.

Abandoning darkest Peru after an earthquake, our diminutive hero arrives in London where he proceeds to wreak healing havoc in the home of the Browns, the uptight dad (Hugh Bonneville), vivacious mum (Sally Hawkins), and the troubled kids. Nicole Kidman’s plays a trigger-happy taxidermist and (Peter Capaldi /Dr. Who), a creepy neighbour. It’s terrifically good-hearted fare, painting a colourful portrait of London as a multicultural melting pot with a just a hint of old school Mary Poppins charm.

The jokes are good too, ranging from laugh-out-loud observations about the transformative effects of parenthood (and knowing mentions of “exotic wrestlers”) to slapstick bathroom episodes. Ben Whishaw turns out to be the perfect voice of Paddington (Colin Firth failed the audition), his lilting diction at once childlike and wise, his delivery naive yet oddly noble. “Please look after this bear”, says the tag around Paddington’s neck. Rest assured, they have.

Paddington will be showing ‘imself on Friday 15^th April and a little earlier than usual starting at 7:00pm. Doors open at 6:30, entrance is free but not the Pay Bar. Children are expected to attend and they should bring with them their favourite toy bears, while ‘grups’ and ‘gramps’ (aka parents & grandparents) should come along and they’re allowed to bring their favourite ‘cuddlies’ too, although back row seats are not guaranteed! Booking not necessary.

Just turn up no later than 7:00.