New Paddington Film Set to Boost Tourism in Peru

The world premiere of 'Paddington in Peru', the latest installment in the beloved Paddington Bear film series, took place in London on Sunday, with cast members expressing enthusiasm for the South American country. The 2024 release, directed by Dougal Wilson, is anticipated to spark global interest in Peru and its internationally recognized attractions.

Hugh Bonneville, who plays Henry Brown in the series, addressed Peruvian audiences, thanking them for 'loaning' the spectacled bear character and suggesting an expected increase in tourism to the country. Antonio Banderas, cast as riverboat captain Hunter Cabot, shared his personal experiences in Peru, describing his four-day Inka Trail hike from Cusco to Machupicchu as 'one of the most beautiful and spiritual experiences' of his life.

The film's production received support from PROMPERÚ, Peru's export and tourism promotion board, which assisted with filming in Lima and Cusco. This collaboration is part of PROMPERÚ's strategy to promote Peru as a filming location, involving coordination with public and private entities to secure necessary permits and visas for the film crew.

This development is significant for Peru's tourism industry, as the Paddington franchise has a global following. The character's origins in 'deepest, darkest Peru,' first introduced in Michael Bond's 1958 book, have long piqued interest in the country. With the new film showcasing Peru's landscapes and culture, it is likely to drive increased tourism and potentially boost the country's economy.

The movie's release is scheduled for November 8 in the UK and Ireland, with a US release planned for early 2025. As the film reaches international audiences, it is expected to enhance Peru's profile as a travel destination, potentially leading to long-term benefits for the country's tourism sector and related industries.

This collaboration between the film industry and Peru's tourism board demonstrates the growing recognition of cinema's power to influence travel trends and promote destinations. It also highlights the potential for countries to leverage popular culture and entertainment to boost their international appeal and economic prospects.